Secrets of Cyber Investigation Unveiled at Digital Forensic Week 2024

Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) hosted the much-anticipated Digital Forensic Week 2024, captivating students with an immersive journey through the complexities of cyber investigation, with the event running from 27th to 30th May 2024.

Coordinated by Ms Nik Nurul Ain Nik Suki (Lecturer, School of Technology at APU) and Ms Zaireeda Mohd Fauzee (Lecturer, School of Technology at APU), the event featured insights from law enforcement experts and industry leaders, highlighting the crucial role of digital forensics in modern crime resolution.

Day One: Exploring the Legal Foundations of Digital Forensics

The event kicked off with an opening keynote speech by the notable; The Honourable Justice Dr Johan Lee Kien How, a High Court Judge, who explored the legal intricacies of digital forensics.

His insightful speech set the tone for the entire event, emphasising the critical importance of robust legal frameworks in effective cyber investigations.

Students were captivated by the compelling examples and case studies, which vividly illustrated how digital evidence shapes legal outcomes and advances investigative practices in the digital age.

Day Two: Strengthening Business Cybersecurity

On the second day, students were treated to in-depth discussions by Mr CY Teng from Hytech Technology, who is also a cybersecurity programme alumnus from APU.

Mr Teng’s session on corporate forensics provided invaluable insights into safeguarding businesses against cyber threats.

His expertise in forensic analysis offered students practical methodologies for effective detection, analysis, and response to cyber incidents.

Through real-world case studies and industry best practices, he provided actionable insights that fortified organisational cybersecurity postures.

His emphasis on collaboration and continuous improvement advocated a proactive cybersecurity approach integrating ongoing monitoring, threat intelligence sharing, and team skill development, empowering students to implement essential proactive strategies in today’s digital landscape.

Day Three: Navigating Cryptocurrency Challenges and Hands-On Forensic Training

On the third day, Inspector (INSP) Nalini Munusamy from the Royal Malaysia Police delivered an insightful session that fascinated the audience.

INSP Nalini delved into the intricate world of cryptocurrency investigations, offering a comprehensive view of the advanced techniques used to trace digital currency transactions and highlighting the evolving challenges posed by cryptocurrency in criminal activities and law enforcement efforts.

Her informative sharing underscored the critical importance of staying abreast of technological advancements and innovative methodologies to effectively tackle cybercrime in today’s digital landscape.

Additionally, the day featured a gripping showcase of cases cracked through digital evidence, with students immersed in simulated crime scenes and actively honing their digital forensics skills under the expert guidance of seasoned professionals from Siaga Informatics and Prisma Khas.

This hands-on experience provided invaluable practical insights, equipping students with the knowledge and proficiency needed to tackle real-world challenges in digital investigations.

Day Four: Future Trends in Digital Forensics and Practical Application

On the final day, Ms Aisyah Mohamad Hafizul, Digital Forensic Analyst at CyberSecurity Malaysia, delivered captivating insights into the future of investigative techniques, illustrating their impact through case studies on viral incidents.

​

Simultaneously, students enthusiastically took part in the Digital Forensic Capture The Flag (CTF) challenge, organised by Mr Shahab Alizadeh (Lecturer, School of Technology at APU) and the Digital Forensic Week 2024 student committees.

This exhilarating competition not only tested but also showcased the students’ prowess in solving intricate digital forensic puzzles.

Under the observation of industry professionals and peers alike, students demonstrated their adeptness in applying forensic techniques to dissect simulated cybercrime scenarios, highlighting their innovative problem-solving abilities and deep understanding of digital investigation methodologies.

Reflections on Digital Forensic Week 2024

Digital Forensic Week 2024 was a transformative gathering, uniting experts, industry leaders, and students to explore the depths of cyber investigation, which, according to Assoc Prof Dr Thang Ka Fei (Senior Head of School, School of Technology at APU), successfully raised awareness among the APU student community about the crucial role of digital forensics in everyday life and also motivated foundation and diploma students to choose it as their preferred programme for undergraduate study.

“Featuring enlightening keynote addresses from distinguished speakers and hands-on workshops, the event also underscored the pivotal role of digital forensics in today’s landscape.”

On a forward-looking note, the students departed with enriched knowledge, enhanced skills, and a renewed commitment to combating cyber threats, marking Digital Forensic Week 2024 as a beacon of innovation and collaboration towards a more secure digital future.