When something goes wrong inside a company; suspected data theft, employee misconduct, or a cyber incident, the first call often goes to the IT department. After all, they know the systems best. But while IT teams are excellent at keeping networks and devices running, they’re not equipped to handle investigations that may end up in court. That’s where digital forensics comes in.
Below are some reasons why internal IT investigations frequently fail and how proper forensic oversight changes the outcome.
1. Evidence Gets Altered (Even by Accident)
IT’s instinct is to log in, check files, and run searches. But every keystroke and login can overwrite valuable metadata. Courts demand evidence that is preserved exactly as it was, even small changes can render it inadmissible.
Forensic fix: We use write-blocked imaging, chain-of-custody documentation, and industry-standard tools to preserve the evidence in its original state.
2. Gaps in What’s Collected
IT usually focuses on live files: documents, emails, and logs they can see. What they often miss are deleted files, unallocated space, USB device history, and cloud sync remnants. These hidden artifacts are often where the real story lies.
Forensic fix: Proper forensic collection includes live data and the artifacts most people don’t realize exist.
3. Lack of Documentation
In court, it’s not just what you found, it’s how you found it. Without a clear, defensible process, opposing counsel can dismantle the entire investigation.
Forensic fix: Every action we take is documented: who did what, when, and with which tool. That transparency makes findings stand up under scrutiny.
4. Confusing IT Problems with Evidence
IT’s job is often to fix things quickly, reset a password, patch a system, reimage a laptop. But in doing so, they may destroy or overwrite the very data needed to prove what happened.
Forensic fix: Forensics prioritizes evidence first, fixes second. Once the facts are preserved, IT can safely return systems to normal.
5. Expert Testimony Matters
An IT manager may be great at explaining networks, but that doesn’t mean they’re a qualified expert witness. Courts expect testimony from someone with forensic expertise and recognized methodology.
Forensic fix: As expert witnesses, we not only collect and analyze the data, but also explain it in plain English, to attorneys, clients, and judges.
IT is essential for keeping your business running. But when legal, HR, or high-stakes issues arise, relying solely on IT investigations is a costly mistake. Digital forensics ensures evidence is collected properly, preserved defensibly, and presented credibly.
About Swailes Computer Forensics
Swailes Computer Forensics provides expert digital forensic services to law firms, corporations, and organizations nationwide. Our work includes investigations into intellectual property theft, employee misconduct, data breaches, and more. With decades of experience and a commitment to integrity and clarity, we help clients uncover critical evidence and take informed action. If you suspect covert data theft in your organization, our team can help uncover the methods used and secure the facts you need.