Cybercrime Investigation: Modern Trends, Challenges, and the Role of Digital Evidence
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69980/zpkbaw28Keywords:
Cybercrime Investigation, Digital Evidence, Cybersecurity, Digital Transformation, Sustainable EntrepreneurshipAbstract
The rapid digital transformation of business environments has created new opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and global economic integration. However, the increasing reliance on digital infrastructures has also intensified exposure to cyber threats that affect organisations, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Cybercrime activities such as phishing, ransomware attacks, financial fraud, and data breaches have become major challenges for digital economies and entrepreneurial ecosystems. This review paper examines modern trends in cybercrime affecting digital businesses and explores the role of cybercrime investigation in addressing these emerging threats. The study synthesises existing literature on digital transformation, cybercrime patterns, investigative technologies, and digital evidence management. It highlights the importance of digital forensics, artificial intelligence, blockchain analysis, and open-source intelligence as critical tools in modern cybercrime investigations. The paper also discusses major challenges faced by investigators, including cross-border jurisdictional issues, technological anonymity, regulatory limitations, and resource constraints in developing economies. Furthermore, the review emphasises the implications of cybercrime for sustainable entrepreneurship and digital economic development. Strengthening cybersecurity governance, improving digital literacy, and promoting collaboration between public and private sectors are identified as key strategies for enhancing cyber resilience. The study concludes that integrating advanced investigative technologies with effective governance frameworks is essential for combating cybercrime and protecting digital ecosystems in the evolving digital economy.
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