Forensic Computer Analyst

You could do certified industry training with a professional body like the Chartered Institute of Information Security or The Chartered Institute for IT.

You'll need to be working in IT security or have a lot of experience to do this.

You'll need:

• analytical thinking skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• persistence and determination
• complex problem-solving skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Your tasks will depend on the type of organisation you work for and could include the investigation of:

• hacking, online scams and fraud
• political, industrial and commercial espionage
• terrorist communications
• possession of illegal pornography
• theft of sensitive company information

Your first task on a project will be to secure the IT system or hardware so it can't be tampered with. Using forensic methods and specialist computer programs, your further tasks could include:

• finding, recovering and copying data from disks that may have been hidden, encrypted or damaged
• revealing digital images that have been altered to mask the identity of a place or person
• analysing mobile phone records to trace devices to a particular location
• following electronic data trails to uncover links between individuals or groups
• carefully documenting each stage of your investigation
• presenting technical findings to managers, law enforcement organisations and clients

You could work in a court, in an office or at a client's business.

Further information

You can find out more about careers in digital security from the National Cyber Security Centre and The Chartered Institute for IT.

You'll need to:

• pass security checks