Aspects of Digital Forensics in South Africa

Abstract

This paper explores the issues facing digital forensics in South Africa. It examines particular cyber threats and cyber threat levels for South Africa and the challenges in addressing the cybercrimes in the country through digital forensics. The paper paints a picture of the cybercrime threats facing South Africa and argues for the need to develop a skill base in digital forensics in order to counter the threats through detection of cybercrime, by analyzing cybercrime reports, consideration of current legislation, and an analysis of computer forensics course provision in South African universities. The paper argues that there is a need to develop digital forensics skills in South Africa through university programs, in addition to associated training courses. The intention in this paper is to promote debate and discussion in order to identify the cyber threats to South Africa and to encourage the development of a framework to counter the threats -through legislation, high tech law enforcement structures and protocols, digital forensics education, digital forensics skills development, and a public and business awareness of cybercrime threats.

Relevant Cybersecurity: Curriculum Guidance for the South African Context

“…Governments and industry bodies are aware of the need to increase the number of cybersecurity professionals and actively attempt to do so [11,8]. In developing countries, such as South Africa, this is especially important for the protection of online services and data, as more businesses and consumers go online [9,14]. To ensure relevance, industry is often consulted to determine what skills are deemed necessary for cybersecurity professionals [7,11].…”