Question

• What are some specific challenges that overlapping of jurisdictions poses in the fight against cybercrime? What are the differences between public-sector and private-sector computer investigations? Which method would you prefer to use if you were investigating cybercrime and why?

Answer 1

John Mason, the cybersecurity expert predicts that there is going to be 3.5 million jobs (increase by 350% annually) in cybersecurity due to the challenges posed by cyber criminals by 2020. Cybersecurity is close to creating $100 billion business annually. Businesses globally allocate a good proportion of funds to maintain customer privacy, secure confidential information and hiring cybersecurity professionals. Ransomware is the first major challenge posed by cybercriminals in spreading the virus into the information system of business and demanding millions of dollars. Ransomware attacks have increased by 36% in 2018 and likely to increase further. Cybercriminals use malware to delete the business information permanently and cause loss to business with 42% of global business having no disaster recovery tools to retrieve the lost business information. These businesses have to pay ransom to the cybercriminals to get their business information back. AI seems to be a solution to prevent cyber attacks. IoT (Internet of Things) threats are the next major challenge with nearly 70% of IoT enabled devices in households and business under serious threat of cybercriminals from accessing the digital devices in home and offices. Blockchain revolution with the rise of cryptocurrencies enables cybercriminals easy access to medical records, banking information, access control and identity theft.
The difference between the public sector and private sector computer investigations lies in the training program, approaches, law enforcement, investigation methods, matters handled and resources. The public sector investigation officers undergo a rigorous training program with special certifications and exams to qualify in specific areas. The private sector officers often are retired public officers and training is not as strict as the public sector. The public sector computer investigations are law enforcement officers to uphold the laws of the state while private detectives are commercial. Public sector officers have the power to detain a witness or suspect to make a legal case while a private sector officer does not have these powers. Public sector computer investigations are restricted to criminal matters while private investigators delve into financial, personal matters including marital infidelity, character reports, insurance fraud, missing persons, forensic and background checks. Resources especially finance is restricted to public sector investigations while private sector has adequate resources depending on the complexity of the case and the interest shown by the client in the case.
The choice between public sector investigation and private investigation depends upon the situation. If the client requires investigation to expedite and follow their direction to solve the case in a quick and confidential manner involving personal matter, then private sector investigation is best suited. On the other hand, if the person wants to move the case in a legal manner, then public sector investigation is appropriate.