As personal computers became more accessible to the public, the criminal element began to use them as a tool for their illegal activity. To counter and investigate the use of computers as an instrument of crimes, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) began developing methods and tools to recover digital evidence for prosecution. These methods led to the initial discipline of computer forensic science, which later evolved into a profession. Over the years as computer crimes became more prevalent, other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies began to train investigators in digital forensics, along with private corporations protecting their networks. There has been a push by numerous organizations and by legislation on the standardization of computer forensics, but to date there are no mandatory set standards for certifications, accreditation's, and education for the digital forensic profession. The purpose of this research was to examine the need for the implementation of mandatory standardized training and standards in the profession of digital forensics. How will a national standard affect the science of digital forensics? By not having any standardization, how is this detrimental to the profession and the legal system? Mandatory standardization is required to enhance the creditability of the digital forensic profession in the eyes of the public, other forensic sciences, and more importantly the legal system. Our society has slowly evolved into a digital one and will only grow in the future. We need well educated and trained digital forensics examiners to bring legitimacy to the profession to protect our national and public interest. Keywords: Cybersecurity, Christopher Riddell, digital forensics, certification, accreditation, standardization, mandated.
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