Digital forensics: India’s opportunity

Source: The post is based on the article “Digital forensics: India’s opportunity” published in “Business standard” on 22nd September 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.

News: The author is discussing the growing importance of digital forensics, which involves analyzing digital devices to find evidence. He points out that while it is crucial for investigating crimes and protecting sensitive information, India is currently lagging in this field. However, new laws and a growing awareness are pushing developments in this sector in India, leading to opportunities for growth and advancements in digital forensic technology and practices.

What is digital forensics?

Digital forensics is a field focused on recovering and investigating information on digital devices and preserving it as evidence.

It’s not just for solving crimes anymore; companies, like banks, use it to protect against threats.

What is the importance of digital forensics?

Solves Crimes & Protects Information: It unearths critical information, serving as a tool for finding evidence in criminal investigations and corporate threat protection.

Extensive Applicability: Used by various sectors like banks to plug security gaps, and by R&D labs to safeguard designs and patents.

Market Growth: The field is growing swiftly, expecting to reach $30.78 billion by 2030, reflecting its rising importance.

Enhancing Security: Its development and application are critical in enhancing the security measures in place, helping to safeguard sensitive information in various sectors.

How is India responding to digital forensics needs?

Educational Progress: Gujarat initiated India’s first forensic science university in 2008, evolving into the National Forensic Sciences University.

Development of Tools: Centre for Development of Advanced Computing has developed India’s first tool for computer digital forensics.

Encouraging Startups: An Ahmedabad-based startup is working on creating India’s first digital forensics tool for smartphones.

Legal Framework Enhancement: The DPDP Act, 2023, has prompted advancements in digital forensics to meet legal obligations and avoid penalties.

Lab Notifications: The government is working to notify more labs as examiners of electronic evidence under the IT Act.

Improving Training: There’s an emphasis on implementing standardised graded awareness and training programmes for the police, prosecution, and judiciary.