Computer forensics generally refers to steps taken to collect and analyze digital data,

such as what is found $($or sometimes buried$)$ in computers, phones, portable hard

drives, and cloud storage locations. Computer forensics experts have specialized tools

that allow them to analyze data that may not be displayed in plain text or that would not

be responsive to search terms. This evidence may help piece together what actions a

user took and when; such as$,$ for example, when a user modified a file, downloaded

wiping software, or attached an external hard drive to the computer.

Computer forensics specialists who work in private industry are sometimes faced with

unique challenges, especially if senior management has a flawed view of the field, and

how its practitioners do their jobs.