Demystifying the Network and Cloud Forensics’ Legal, Ethical, and Practical Considerations

Abstract

As cybercrimes grow more sophisticated, network and cloud forensics have become vital investigative tools. However, complex legal, ethical, and practical challenges around extraterritorial evidence, privacy rights, volatile data, and specialized skills constrain these processes. This study critically reviews academic literature and industry reports to examine these multifaceted considerations holistically. It aims to aggregate the latest insights around regulations, technical protocols, certification regimes, and international cooperation frameworks shaping network and cloud forensics. The study follows qualitative research methodology, a doctrinal approach used for the analysis of regulation, and grounded theory used for the analysis of related literature. The results reveal gaps around the liability limitations of internet service and cloud providers, ethical bounds for ancillary data collection, and anti-forensic obfuscation techniques. Proposed solutions include accountability in technology design through transparency and oversight. Simplify procedures for cross-border legal assistance requests. Develop lightweight encryption methods that still enable lawful access as well as promote collaboration between industry and academia to advance cybersecurity tools.