The concept of computer forensics and quantum physics having very much to do with one another might seem strange to most, including those who are already in the field of computer forensics. However, recent work from physicists who are working at the University of Strathclyde and Heriot-Watt University see things a bit differently than most. They found that by utilizing small light particles, they have been able to develop a different method by which they can authenticate electronic messages.

What’s Quantum Physics Got to Do with It?
Light particles, or photons, are actually a useful way that one can now authenticate digital signatures according to the quantum physicists who have been working on the issue. They believe that this is going to provide a much higher level of security, and if they are correct, this is going to mean great things in the world of cybercrime investigations. Just consider all of the different areas where a digital signature is necessary. Whenever anyone shops online, banks on the web, votes, or even updates software, he or she is using a digital signature.

The current method in place uses math for security. However, the issue with using those types of formulas as a form of security is that someone is going to be able to crack them eventually. If this happens, theft, fraud, and a host of other issues could well happen. The new quantum signatures hope to stop that from happening. The physicists believe that with the use of quantum mechanics, they could actually just about eliminate hacking and theft. This could be a huge win in the fight against these types of criminals.

Even though it is still in the early stages, the science behind it all seems to be quite sound. It could be very good news indeed if this works and filters its way into everyday usage.

In addition to the use of quantum mechanics for better security, it is also highly important to make sure that there are more law enforcement officials and computer forensic experts able to handle the backlog and influx of these types of cases right now. While physics might help in the future, the police need to make sure that they identify and apprehend thieves and other criminals now as well.

The Cost of Cybercrime
As most people today know, cybercrime costs people around the globe billions of dollars. Cybercrime hits the wallet in many ways. The criminals steal digital properties, passwords, money, and more. Digital crime lends itself to other areas besides theft on the web. Pornography, murder, exploitation, blackmail, and more are all types of crimes that fall into this realm thanks to the proliferation of computers. Computer forensics recruiters know that this area of forensics is going to be very popular in the job market in the coming years.

As more and more people are becoming connected, it means more opportunities for criminals. This means that the world needs to have more trained professionals who will be able to handle the rise in cybercrime, and now is a great time to go to school for a career in this field.

You will be able to find a number of different schools online and offline that could help you receive a degree that you could put to work in computer forensics. One of your best options is to speak with a computer forensics recruiter who will be able to give you more details about the schooling and what you need to do. Who knows? In a couple of years, you could be working with some systems and tools that incorporate quantum mechanics!

Anita Schepers provides advice and information on computer forensics training at Computer-Forensics-Recruiter.com.