Evolving the science of digital forensics – The Sydney Declaration

Digital forensics has evolved significantly since the early days of being a “by the seat of the pants” activity carried out by nerd cops. It is now a recognized forensic science. But even as a forensic science it has faced challenges when compared to typical physical lab based forensic sciences which are often very limited in their analysis scope. Digital forensics has often blurred the line between investigative activity and forensic science, which has sometimes put it at odds with the broader forensic science field. However, the Sydney Declaration on Forensic Science which has revisited the essence of what forensic science is by re-evaluating the fundamental principles of forensic science has provided an opportunity to integrate the investigative nature and forensic science natures of digital forensics into a cohesive whole.

This presentation will explore the Sydney Declaration on Forensic Science and how it can be applied to the practice of evolving digital forensics.