CQUniversity Unit Profile
COIT20267 Computer Forensics
Computer Forensics
All details in this unit profile for COIT20267 have been officially approved by CQUniversity and represent a learning partnership between the University and you (our student).
The information will not be changed unless absolutely necessary and any change will be clearly indicated by an approved correction included in the profile.
General Information

Overview

The continual integration of computers and the Internet into business and personal activities is creating opportunities for crimes utilising these technologies. The investigation of these electronic crimes requires specialised computer-based techniques to collect and analyse evidence. This unit equips you with a broad understanding of how electronic crimes are conducted, as well as in-depth knowledge of computer forensic investigations. Through the use of industry-leading digital forensic tools in a laboratory environment, you will develop practical skills applicable to all phases of forensic investigations. You will learn different approaches for identifying, gathering and analysing digital evidence, as well as addressing legal issues in computer forensic investigations.

Details

Career Level: Postgraduate
Unit Level: Level 9
Credit Points: 6
Student Contribution Band: 8
Fraction of Full-Time Student Load: 0.125

Pre-requisites or Co-requisites

Pre-requisite: COIT20261 Network Routing and Switching

Important note: Students enrolled in a subsequent unit who failed their pre-requisite unit, should drop the subsequent unit before the census date or within 10 working days of Fail grade notification. Students who do not drop the unit in this timeframe cannot later drop the unit without academic and financial liability. See details in the Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).

Offerings For Term 1 - 2020

Brisbane
Melbourne
Online
Sydney

Attendance Requirements

All on-campus students are expected to attend scheduled classes – in some units, these classes are identified as a mandatory (pass/fail) component and attendance is compulsory. International students, on a student visa, must maintain a full time study load and meet both attendance and academic progress requirements in each study period (satisfactory attendance for International students is defined as maintaining at least an 80% attendance record).

Class and Assessment Overview

Recommended Student Time Commitment

Each 6-credit Postgraduate unit at CQUniversity requires an overall time commitment of an average of 12.5 hours of study per week, making a total of 150 hours for the unit.

Class Timetable

Bundaberg, Cairns, Emerald, Gladstone, Mackay, Rockhampton, Townsville
Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney

Assessment Overview

1. Online Quiz(zes)
Weighting: 20%
2. Written Assessment
Weighting: 35%
3. Written Assessment
Weighting: 45%

Assessment Grading

This is a graded unit: your overall grade will be calculated from the marks or grades for each assessment task, based on the relative weightings shown in the table above. You must obtain an overall mark for the unit of at least 50%, or an overall grade of ‘pass’ in order to pass the unit. If any ‘pass/fail’ tasks are shown in the table above they must also be completed successfully (‘pass’ grade). You must also meet any minimum mark requirements specified for a particular assessment task, as detailed in the ‘assessment task’ section (note that in some instances, the minimum mark for a task may be greater than 50%). Consult the University’s Grades and Results Policy for more details of interim results and final grades.

Previous Student Feedback

Feedback, Recommendations and Responses

Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.

Feedback from Students feedback

Feedback

More comprehensive and constructive feedback should be given to students assessments.

Recommendation

Develop detailed marking criteria for assessments and encourage tutors to write detailed and constructive feedback as inline comments in the Word submission files.

Feedback from Student feedback and staff feedback

Feedback

The software (e.g. OSForensics) installed in the lab is not fully compatible with lab tasks in the latest version of the Lab manual.

Recommendation

Update software versions in the Lab to the recommended version in the Lab manual.

Feedback from Self-reflection and staff feedback

Feedback

Lab files are too large and take up too much time for students to download in the lab. Some of the required files for the lab are more than 2GB, and therefore cannot be uploaded into Moodle.

Recommendation

Provide alternative methods for students to access large files in class, e.g. several USB drives for distribution in class, Cloudstor for downloads.

Unit Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
  1. Discuss the different types of electronic crime and the need for a computer forensics investigation
  2. Analyse the role of computer forensic professionals in enabling successful investigation and prevention of electronic crime in business environments
  3. Apply a systematic approach in a digital investigation through the conduct of computer forensics procedures and the use of computer forensic tools
  4. Apply the necessary steps required for collecting, storing, analysing and validating digital evidence
  5. Explain the legal issues involved in a computer forensic investigation
  6. Evaluate current industry best practices for analysing computer forensic case scenarios.

Australian Computer Society (ACS) recognises the Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA). SFIA is in use in over 100 countries and provides a widely used and consistent definition of ICT skills. SFIA is increasingly being used when developing job descriptions and role profiles.
ACS members can use the tool MySFIA to build a skills profile at https://www.acs.org.au/professionalrecognition/mysfia-b2c.html
This unit contributes to the following workplace skills as defined by SFIA. The SFIA code is included:
  • Information Security (SCTY)
  • Digital forensics (DGFS)
  • Data analysis (DTAN)
  • Testing (TEST)
  • Network Support (NTAS)
  • Application Support (ASUP).

Alignment of Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Graduate Attributes
N/A Level
Introductory Level
Intermediate Level
Graduate Level
Professional Level
Advanced Level

Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Learning Outcomes

Assessment Tasks Learning Outcomes
1 2 3 4 5 6
1 - Online Quiz(zes) - 20%
2 - Written Assessment - 35%
3 - Written Assessment - 45%

Alignment of Graduate Attributes to Learning Outcomes

Graduate Attributes Learning Outcomes
1 2 3 4 5 6
1 - Knowledge
2 - Communication
3 - Cognitive, technical and creative skills
4 - Research
5 - Self-management
6 - Ethical and Professional Responsibility
7 - Leadership
8 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures

Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Graduate Attributes

Assessment Tasks Graduate Attributes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
1 - Online Quiz(zes) - 20%
2 - Written Assessment - 35%
3 - Written Assessment - 45%
Textbooks and Resources

Textbooks

Prescribed

Guide to computer forensics and investigations

Edition: 6th edn (2018)
Authors: Nelson, B., Phillips, A., and Steuart, C.
Cengage Learning
Boston Boston , MA 02210 , United States of America
ISBN: 9781337568944
Binding: Hardcover
Supplementary

Lab Manual for Nelson / Phillips / Steuart Guide to Computer Forensics and Investigations

Edition: 5th edn (2015)
Authors: Blitz, A.
Cengage Learning
Florence Florence , KY , USA
ISBN: 9781285079080
Binding: Paperback

Additional Textbook Information

Paper copies can be purchased from the CQUni Bookshop here: http://bookshop.cqu.edu.au (search on the Unit code)

IT Resources

You will need access to the following IT resources:
  • CQUniversity Student Email
  • Internet
  • Unit Website (Moodle)
  • Computer forensic software and student data files (with "Lab Manual for Guide to Computer Forensics and Investigations (4th ed)" by A. Blitz)
  • MindTap - Cloud based virtual lab integrated in Moodle unit website
Referencing Style

All submissions for this unit must use the referencing style: Harvard (author-date)

For further information, see the Assessment Tasks.

Teaching Contacts
Biplob Ray Unit Coordinator
b.ray@cqu.edu.au
Schedule
Week 1 Begin Date: 09 Mar 2020

Module/Topic

Understanding the Digital Forensics Professional and Investigation

Chapter

Chapter 1

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 2 Begin Date: 16 Mar 2020

Module/Topic

The Investigator's Office and Laboratory

Chapter

Chapter 2

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 3 Begin Date: 23 Mar 2020

Module/Topic

Data Acquisition

Chapter

Chapter 3

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 4 Begin Date: 30 Mar 2020

Module/Topic

Processing Crime and Incident Scenes

Chapter

Chapter 4

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 5 Begin Date: 06 Apr 2020

Module/Topic

Current Digital Forensics Tools

Chapter

Chapter 6

Events and Submissions/Topic

Vacation Week Begin Date: 13 Apr 2020

Module/Topic


Chapter


Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 6 Begin Date: 20 Apr 2020

Module/Topic

Digital Forensics Analysis and Validation

Chapter

Chapter 9

Events and Submissions/Topic

Assessment Item 2 - Presentation and Comparative Study Due: Week 6 Friday (24 Apr 2020) 11:55 am AEST
Week 7 Begin Date: 27 Apr 2020

Module/Topic

Working with Windows and CLI Systems

Chapter

Chapter 5

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 8 Begin Date: 04 May 2020

Module/Topic

Linux and Macintosh File System & Recovering Graphics Files

Chapter

Chapters 7 & 8

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 9 Begin Date: 11 May 2020

Module/Topic

Virtual Machine Forensics, Live Acquisitions, and Network Forensics

E-mail and Social Media Investigations

Chapter

Chapter 10 and Chapter 11

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 10 Begin Date: 18 May 2020

Module/Topic

Mobile Device Forensics and the Internet of Anything

Chapter

Chapter 12

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 11 Begin Date: 25 May 2020

Module/Topic

Cloud Forensics and Report Writing for High-Tech Investigation

Chapter

Chapter 13 and Chapter 14

Events and Submissions/Topic


Week 12 Begin Date: 01 Jun 2020

Module/Topic

Expert Testimony in Digital Investigation & Ethics for the Expert Witness

Chapter

Chapters 15 & 16

Events and Submissions/Topic

Assessment Item 3 - Written Assignment - Case Study Due: Week 12 Friday (5 June 2020) 11:55 am AEST
Review/Exam Week Begin Date: 08 Jun 2020

Module/Topic

Chapter

Events and Submissions/Topic

Assessment Item 1 - Online Quiz Due: Review/Exam Week Friday (12 June 2020) 11:55 am AEST
Exam Week Begin Date: 15 Jun 2020

Module/Topic

This is no exam in this unit.

Chapter

Events and Submissions/Topic

Term Specific Information

Welcome to Term 1 2020!

During the term, if you are enrolled in a campus class, please contact the respective conducting lead lecturer on that campus with your questions. Their Unit Contact details are found on the unit page on Moodle ("Information" box, top left column). Distance and online students should contact me if you have any questions which are not suitable to be asked through the unit forums.

There is much reading to cover during the term, so you are encouraged to get your recommended textbook early, and not miss any classes and assessments. I look forward to your active participation in class and through the forums.

Have an enjoyable term!

Dr. Biplob Ray (b.ray@cqu.edu.au) Unit Coordinator - T1, 2020 COIT20267 Computer Forensics

Ph: +61 3 96160695 | X 50695

Assessment Tasks

1 Online Quiz(zes)

Assessment Title
Assessment Item 1 - Online Quiz

Task Description

You will complete an online quiz in Moodle containing a variety of questions covering material from weeks 1 to 12 of the unit. The quiz is open book, has a duration of 60 minutes, and only a single attempt is allowed.

This assessment is to be done on an individual basis.


Number of Quizzes


Frequency of Quizzes


Assessment Due Date

Review/Exam Week Friday (12 June 2020) 11:55 am AEST


Return Date to Students

Exam Week Friday (19 June 2020)


Weighting
20%

Assessment Criteria

1. Each quiz question will be multiple choice, which is randomly drawn from a large question bank.

2. The quiz will be available on the Unit Website on Moodle in Week 13. It has been set to automatically open at 9:00 am on Monday of Week 13 and automatically close at 11:45 pm on Friday of Week 13.

3. Detailed instructions about the quiz will be provided on the Unit Website on Moodle.

4. As a quiz solution will be released shortly after the quiz closing time, no late submissions will be accepted. The quiz will close on the deadline. Therefore if you have not attempted the quiz before the deadline, you will receive 0 marks.


Referencing Style

Submission
Online

Submission Instructions
Online

Learning Outcomes Assessed
  • Discuss the different types of electronic crime and the need for a computer forensics investigation
  • Analyse the role of computer forensic professionals in enabling successful investigation and prevention of electronic crime in business environments
  • Explain the legal issues involved in a computer forensic investigation


Graduate Attributes
  • Knowledge
  • Communication

2 Written Assessment

Assessment Title
Assessment Item 2 - Presentation and Comparative Study

Task Description

This assignment requires you to research existing computer forensic tools and apply a selected computer forensic tool to evaluate a real case problem. More specifically, you will be asked to:

1. Identify different computer forensics tools for computer investigations.

2. Analyse the strengths and weaknesses of computer forensics tools.

3. Demonstrate the suitability of the chosen computer forensic tool in the real case scenario.

4. Submit a report and give a presentation in class.

This is a group assessment, with on-campus students required to work and submit in a group of 2 or 3. Distance students may work individually.


Assessment Due Date

Week 6 Friday (24 Apr 2020) 11:55 am AEST

Online


Return Date to Students

Week 8 Friday (8 May 2020)

Online


Weighting
35%

Assessment Criteria

You will be assessed mainly against:

1. Providing a thorough analysis on available computer forensic tools.

2. The justification of using a specific computer forensic tool.

3. Discussion on the application of the computer forensic tool for dealing with the real case problem.

4. Presenting the analysis and findings in the report.


Referencing Style

Submission
Online Group

Submission Instructions
Submit as per instructions on the Moodle unit website.

Learning Outcomes Assessed
  • Discuss the different types of electronic crime and the need for a computer forensics investigation
  • Analyse the role of computer forensic professionals in enabling successful investigation and prevention of electronic crime in business environments
  • Apply a systematic approach in a digital investigation through the conduct of computer forensics procedures and the use of computer forensic tools
  • Apply the necessary steps required for collecting, storing, analysing and validating digital evidence
  • Evaluate current industry best practices for analysing computer forensic case scenarios.


Graduate Attributes
  • Knowledge
  • Communication
  • Research
  • Ethical and Professional Responsibility

3 Written Assessment

Assessment Title
Assessment Item 3 - Written Assignment - Case Study

Task Description

You are to produce a forensic analysis and report for a given case study. In this assessment, you will be specifically asked to:

1. Apply the computer forensics methodologies.

2. Write an analysis of a case study.

3. Prepare an outline of a professional computer forensic plan.

Details of the case study, the questions, what you are required to submit and guidelines for approaching the assignment will be available on the Moodle unit website.

This is a group assessment, with on-campus students required to work and submit in a group of 2 or 3. Distance students may work individually.


Assessment Due Date

Week 12 Friday (5 June 2020) 11:55 am AEST

Online


Return Date to Students

Exam Week Friday (19 June 2020)

Result will be released after certification


Weighting
45%

Assessment Criteria

You are assessed mainly against:

1. The justification of using the computer forensic methodology and approach.

2. Providing the resources required for a digital forensic investigation, including the skill set of team members and the tools.

3. Outlining an approach for evidence identification and acquisition.

4. Outlining the steps to be taken during the analysis phase.

5. Presenting the full investigative report.

Further details are available on Moodle.


Referencing Style

Submission
Online Group

Submission Instructions
Submit as per instructions on the Moodle unit website.

Learning Outcomes Assessed
  • Apply a systematic approach in a digital investigation through the conduct of computer forensics procedures and the use of computer forensic tools
  • Apply the necessary steps required for collecting, storing, analysing and validating digital evidence
  • Explain the legal issues involved in a computer forensic investigation
  • Evaluate current industry best practices for analysing computer forensic case scenarios.


Graduate Attributes
  • Knowledge
  • Communication
  • Research
  • Ethical and Professional Responsibility
  • Leadership

Academic Integrity Statement

As a CQUniversity student you are expected to act honestly in all aspects of your academic work.

Any assessable work undertaken or submitted for review or assessment must be your own work. Assessable work is any type of work you do to meet the assessment requirements in the unit, including draft work submitted for review and feedback and final work to be assessed.

When you use the ideas, words or data of others in your assessment, you must thoroughly and clearly acknowledge the source of this information by using the correct referencing style for your unit. Using others’ work without proper acknowledgement may be considered a form of intellectual dishonesty.

Participating honestly, respectfully, responsibly, and fairly in your university study ensures the CQUniversity qualification you earn will be valued as a true indication of your individual academic achievement and will continue to receive the respect and recognition it deserves.

As a student, you are responsible for reading and following CQUniversity’s policies, including the Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure. This policy sets out CQUniversity’s expectations of you to act with integrity, examples of academic integrity breaches to avoid, the processes used to address alleged breaches of academic integrity, and potential penalties.

What is a breach of academic integrity?

A breach of academic integrity includes but is not limited to plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, cheating, contract cheating, and academic misconduct. The Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure defines what these terms mean and gives examples.

Why is academic integrity important?

A breach of academic integrity may result in one or more penalties, including suspension or even expulsion from the University. It can also have negative implications for student visas and future enrolment at CQUniversity or elsewhere. Students who engage in contract cheating also risk being blackmailed by contract cheating services.

Where can I get assistance?

For academic advice and guidance, the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) can support you in becoming confident in completing assessments with integrity and of high standard.

What can you do to act with integrity?