There are various services on the Internet, which allow the storage, update, and view of files. Currently, the most prevalent model or technology is the Cloud warehouse. This technology enables users to save their data, not on a single computer but multiple distant servers. Since the information is held and controlled by a third-party, the content can be accessed by agents within an organization as well as attempted to be stolen by outsiders. Thus, crimes related to its illegal obtainment and exposure are investigated by digital forensics.
Cloud computing refers to the exploitation of the Internet to perform tasks previously achieved on a personal computer. Cloud storage is one of its applications where the information is kept in the Cloud (Venkatesh & Eastaff, 2018). A Cloud service provider offers the Information Technology (IT) infrastructure, which presents reliable and secure management of the necessary servers for the data warehouse (Kumar et al., 2017).
The Cloud storage mechanism is straightforward and easy to follow for any experienced online user. After installing the client application, a customer needs to register in it. Next, documents and files, which can be shared and exchanged with colleagues, are dropped into the Cloud. Consequently, they are accessed from any device and location with the proper Internet connection. The Cloud companies give opportunities to edit documents on personal computers. Changes synchronize automatically with the information in the Cloud and vice versa. Therefore, Cloud storage is a useful tool for maintaining data on the Internet with the further possibility of obtaining it on different servers.
The data can be acquired from the Cloud so that a user may gather all essential information. However, during the obtainment process, clients face problems with regard to authorized materials being protected by relating companies. They need to receive permission to gain data and use it in their interests. Moreover, the procedure of verification with multiple steps of user identification may take some time. If there is no issue in respect of legal aspects and correctness of the background provided, the acquisition will be progressed within the period of notification. Thereby, the data collection from the Cloud includes the approval practice, which can involve time lags and delays.
Despite its practical value, the security of the information stored in the Cloud warehouse is under question. In case of hacking, sensitive files and documents can become publicly available. There have been numerous precedents where, as a result of the hackers’ attacks, the data of the users of the service were accessed by the intruders (Kumar et al., 2017). Furthermore, Cloud storage is not warranted from ransomware incidents where a ransom is demanded to recover connection to a computer. Cloud clients can take a number of actions to ensure their data. They can encrypt it on a computer with the help of a software program before uploading information to the Cloud.
The encoded file should be downloaded to it, allowing safer use and utilization. Alternatively, for users without IT knowledge, a Cloud storage service with reliable downloadable software and open-source code must be found. Additionally, that code should be verified by independent security experts. Thereupon, Cloud customers need to pay attention to safety measures, considering potential threats of cyber blackmail.
Norms and standards of professional practice are established in various fields of expertise. Digital forensics is not an exception since there is a code of ethics developed by a board of educated practitioners. First, members have to display all data accessible irrespective of private intentions and motives. A practitioner needs to give priority to public welfare and exclude personal benefits to chase the truth (Seigfried-Spellar et al., 2017). Second, a practitioner who does not misinterpret or distort the information obtained executes ethical frameworks. He or she provides the necessary materials, demonstrating an appropriate level of competence, education, and training (Seigfried-Spellar et al., 2017).
Third, the confidential information acquired during the research phase, which was not disclosed by a member, displays the extent of comprehension of moral foundations (Seigfried-Spellar et al., 2017). Lastly, practitioners apply adequate methods and techniques, carrying scientific weight and validity (Seigfried-Spellar et al., 2017). They conduct examinations by employing a theoretical basis and implementing it in practice. Hence, digital forensics is an area that requires a set of ethical benchmarks through which experts illustrate their capabilities and professionalism.
In conclusion, it can be noted that Cloud storage is an effective device used by businesses and individuals to save their data on the Internet. Its principle is uncomplicated and convenient for continuous exploitation, taking into account various operating functions. Moreover, there is a possibility to obtain information from the Cloud for legible users. Nevertheless, they may encounter some issues regarding the authenticity and the length of the procedures.
Additionally, frequent and harmful occasions of cybercrime necessitate them to ensure data protection. Knowledgeable clients can respond to hackers with their efforts, while those unaware of the IT field may seek assistance in companies involved in cybersecurity. Digital forensic practitioners should comply with multiple moral standards and rules. Their conformity with ethics is revealed during the working process, exposing the level of expertise and fulfillment of professional requirements.
References
Kumar, P. R., Raj, P. H., & Jelciana, P. (2017). Exploring data security issues and solutions in cloud computing. 6th International Conference on Smart Computing and Communications, India, 125, 691–697. Web.
Seigfried-Spellar, K. C., Rogers, M., & Crimmins, D. M. (2017). Development of a professional code of ethics in digital forensics. Annual ADFSL Conference on Digital Forensics, Security and Law, USA, 135-144.
Venkatesh, A. & Eastaff, M. S. (2018). A study of data storage security issues in cloud computing. International Journal of Scientific Research in Computer Science, 3(1), 1741-1745.