Research Proposal: Digital Forensic Framework in Cloud Computing

This project proposal investigates the use of digital forensic frameworks in cloud computing investigations. It begins with an abstract highlighting the increasing reliance on cloud storage and the need for robust forensic methods to ensure data security. The introduction emphasizes the critical role of digital forensic investigations in securing cloud systems against fraud, manipulation, and data theft. The proposal reviews existing research and frameworks, such as NIST and McKemmish, to identify areas for improvement. The methodology outlines a qualitative approach, including a literature review of current frameworks and the analysis of an integrated approach to enhance forensic investigations. The proposal concludes by emphasizing the importance of improving investigation methods to secure cloud technologies for large-scale business operations. The project also acknowledges the wide applicability of cloud technology across various sectors and its positive impact on the global economy.

Abstract
The topic which has been chosen here for
discussion is, “Use of Digital Forensic
Framework in Cloud Computing
Investigations.” This topic has been chosen
because of the recent trend of increase in
the role of cloud storage devices in daily
needs of individuals and organizations [1].
These cloud storage devices facilitates
through greater accessibility of data from
any location, synchronization of data
through two or more devices, providing
space efficiency in the digital devices
being used and is cost effective for the
digital needs. However these benefits of
cloud storage devices and services need to
be secured by forensic investigations
which is required to be carried regularly to
eliminate any chances of fraud,
manipulation of theft of data.
Introduction
In cloud storage device, all the data and
information is maintained remotely and
accessed online by the user from any
location. With the increase in usage of
such technology, there is a greater need to
secure these systems and for which digital
forensic investigation plays a major role.
Related work or Background
Various research has been conducted in
this area to understand how cloud
computing devices can be made secure and
safe for use in large scale [2]. The conduct
of digital forensic investigations have
provided data for the issues which are
being faced in cloud devices and the
improvements necessary. The scope of
criminal exploitation is studied with the
help of forensic investigations and what
regulations are required. Two of the most
common forensic frameworks- NIST and
Mckemmish are used to understand the
malicious practices. However with the help
of this paper we would review what further
improvements can be made in the digital
forensic framework for cloud computing
investigations.
Methodology
The method which would be used here for
conducting the research is through
qualitative approach. The impact of the
current commonly used frameworks-
McKemmish and NIST would be studied
in detail from the literature review of the
researches conducted in this field [3]. A
new integrated approach would be
analysed which would make the forensic
investigations more effective. The
qualitative research methodology would
enable a detailed analysis of the situation
and to find the cause and effect
relationship for the suggested forensic
investigation framework.

Conclusion
Based on the current popularity of cloud
technology and the related challenges, it is
important to improve the investigation
methods in order to make these
technologies safe and secure for use in
large scale business operations. Various
cloud platforms have improved the way in
which data is now being accessed and
processed for making important decisions
[4]. The applicability includes government
institutes, crime investigation departments,
marine services, multinational companies,
national defence services, etc. Data also
shows that the use of cloud technology has
improved the overall economy of the
world.

References
[1]E. Casey, "Clearly conveying digital
forensic results", Digital
Investigation, vol. 24, pp. 1-3, 2018.
[2]B. Martini and K. Choo, "An integrated
conceptual digital forensic framework
for cloud computing", Digital
Investigation, vol. 9, no. 2, pp. 71-80,
2012.
[3]M. Taylor, J. Haggerty, D. Gresty and
D. Lamb, "Forensic investigation of
cloud computing systems", Network
Security, vol. 2011, no. 3, pp. 4-10,
2011.
[4]C. Yan, "Study on Forensic
Investigation of Network Crime in
Cloud Computing
Environment", Advanced Engineering
Forum, vol. 1, pp. 76-80, 2011.
Instructor comments on the project
proposal:
What you are going to do in this research
is not clear. Is this a survey paper? Or, are
you going to propose a new model or
enhance the current models? Any of the
above is fine but you need to be clear in
your abstract and introduction.
-3 Title is missing
-5 Content is vague.
-15 IEEE template is not used.
-10 Proposal is too short when converted
to IEEE format.
Grade: 67/100