Digital Forensics and Ethical Hacking is a key unit covering the core body of knowledge in cyber security, where students learn techniques in gathering evidence of cyber security breaches from devices and conduct ethical hacking to analyse vulnerabilities. This includes, but is not limited to, digital evidence collection (computers' RAM image), analysis, and reporting; memory, operating system, email and network forensics; an introduction to ethical hacking; virus, trojan and malware attacks. In this unit, students will learn hands-on techniques to conduct digital forensics associated with the latest cybercrimes. This unit (NIT2141) provides the knowledge required to allow students to think like 'hackers' and learn to implement ethical hacking techniques to expose potential cyber security vulnerabilities. Students who complete this unit will get the skills required to assist law enforcement organizations to investigate digital crimes and analyse digital evidence.

Unit details

Study level:
Undergraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
NIT2141

Prerequisites

NIT1102 - Introduction to Programming

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
  1. Critically review cybercrime and computer forensics techniques;  
  2. Apply and present the latest digital forensics and evidence analysis techniques; and  
  3. Analyse and report the latest ethical hacking techniques to expose potential cyber security vulnerabilities.  

Assessment

Assessment type Description Grade
Test Open book online test 20%
Report Formative laboratory reports x 9 20%
Assignment Project-based assessment 30%
Laboratory Work Practical lab test 30%

Where to next?

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following courses. Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course.

VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.