GCFA

The GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA) exam is a rigorous certification focusing on the practical application of digital forensics. The main points covered are extensive and can be grouped into several key areas:

1. Fundamentals of Digital Forensics:

• Legal and Ethical Considerations: Understanding laws (e.g., Fourth Amendment, digital evidence admissibility), ethical conduct, and the importance of maintaining a chain of custody.
• Investigation Methodology: Following a structured investigative process, including planning, evidence acquisition, analysis, and reporting. This includes understanding different investigative models (e.g., phases of an investigation).
• Forensic Tool Usage: Practical skills in using various forensic tools for data acquisition, analysis, and reporting. This isn't specific to one tool but demonstrates proficiency in the principles.

2. Data Acquisition and Preservation:

• Live System Acquisition: Capturing data from a running system while minimizing data alteration. This includes techniques like memory forensics.
• Dead System Acquisition: Acquiring data from a powered-off system, using techniques like disk imaging, bit-stream copies, and write-blocking devices.
• Data Validation and Verification: Ensuring the integrity of acquired data through hashing algorithms (MD5, SHA) and validation techniques.

3. Windows and Linux Forensics:

• File System Analysis (NTFS, FAT, ext2, ext3, ext4): Understanding file system structures, metadata, and how to analyze deleted files and file slack.
• Registry Analysis (Windows): Understanding the Windows Registry structure and its importance in forensic investigations.
• Linux Command Line Interface: Proficiency in using Linux commands for system analysis and data recovery.
• Process Analysis: Understanding running processes, their memory usage, and their role in malicious activity.

4. Network Forensics:

• Network traffic analysis: Capturing and analyzing network packets using tools like Wireshark. This includes understanding TCP/IP protocols and common network attacks.
• Log Analysis: Examining system and application logs to identify suspicious activity.
• Malware Analysis (basic): Understanding malware behavior and techniques used to compromise systems. This is more introductory than malware reverse engineering.

5. Mobile Device Forensics:

• Basic understanding of mobile device operating systems (iOS and Android).
• Data extraction and analysis techniques from mobile devices.

6. Data Recovery:

• Techniques to recover deleted files and partitions. This is related to file system analysis but focused on recovery methods.

7. Reporting and Presentation:

• Creating clear, concise, and accurate forensic reports.
• Presenting findings effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.

It's crucial to note that the GCFA exam isn't just about theoretical knowledge. A significant portion of the exam focuses on practical application and problem-solving skills. Candidates are expected to demonstrate a strong understanding of the tools and techniques used in digital forensic investigations. The depth of knowledge required for each area varies, but a solid foundation in all of these areas is essential.