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Cyber Crime investigator

A cybercrime investigator works at the intersection of cybersecurity and criminal justice

The work of a cybercrime investigator focuses on gathering evidence from digital systems that can be used in the prosecution of internet-based, or cyberspace, criminal activity.

In addition to having good technical skills, professionals interested in becoming cybercrime investigators also need to learn the proper way to handle investigations, inquiries, and chain of custody issues.

While possessing and utilizing many of the same skills as a computer forensics investigator, the cybercrime investigator is more focused on and adept at investigating crimes that use the internet as the primary attack vector.

The cybercrime investigator takes the lead in investigating cyber-attacks by criminals, overseas adversaries, and terrorists. The threat from cybercriminals is serious — and growing. Cyber intrusions are becoming more common, more menacing, and more advanced.

Both private and public sector networks are targeted by adversaries every minute of every day. Companies are targeted for trade secrets and other sensitive data and universities are attacked for their research and development.

Citizens are targeted by identity thieves and children by online predators. The ability to preserve and recover digital evidence can be critical for the successful prosecution of these crimes.

Steps to becoming a cybercrime investigator

A combination of both education and experience is needed to become a cybercrime investigator. This education and experience, or a combination of each, should be in both cybersecurity and investigations.

Education A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or cybersecurity is generally required to qualify for a position as a cybercrime investigator.

Some community colleges offer two-year associate degrees in criminal justice, which allow aspiring cybercrime investigators to then transfer to a four-year college or university to earn a bachelor’s degree. Pursuing a degree in computer science is also desirable for work as a cybercrime investigator.

As surveyed by Cyberseek, 50 percent of cybercrime investigators graduated with a bachelor’s degree, while 48 percent pursued a master’s, and only 2 percent had an associate degree.

Career path A common career path for this investigative specialty passes through several years as an integral part of a cybersecurity team. A sound understanding of cybersecurity defenses arms the applicant with the basis for understanding how cybercriminals will react in a variety of circumstances.

Work in a discipline that has helped the applicant acquire skills related to investigative work is valuable within the industry. Below are examples of common job titles/openings related to cybercrime investigators:

• Cyber Threat Analysts
• Cyber Threat Intelligence Analysts
• Threat Intelligence Analysts
• Digital Forensics Analysts
• Crime Intelligence Analysts

Professional certifications While there is no industry-wide prescribed professional certification required for a career as a cybercrime investigator, two certifications stand out as desirable qualifiers.

The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) demonstrates that an applicant has a sound understanding of security architecture, engineering, and management. The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) further demonstrates an in-depth knowledge of cyberattacks and mitigation methods.

Enumerated certifications below are the top certifications requested according to Cyberseek:

• GIAC Certifications
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional
• CompTIA Security+
• Certified Ethical Hacker
• GIAC Certified Incident Handler

Experience Because the knowledge base required to be a successful cybercrime investigator is, in many aspects, cross-functional it is a position best suited for the experienced cybersecurity or criminal investigations professional. Even coming out of college with one of the above-mentioned bachelor’s degrees it is unlikely that a candidate would possess the experience needed in both cybersecurity and investigations.

Experience in the field will allow for adding a solid knowledge of investigation principles and practices on top of cybersecurity skills or vice versa. 

What is a cybercrime investigator?

A cybercrime investigator is a highly skilled and specially-trained investigator or detective. Sought after in both the private and public sectors, these investigators bring the skills needed to unravel today’s sophisticated internet crimes.

Billions of dollars are lost every year repairing systems hit by cyberattacks. Some take down vital systems, disrupting and sometimes disabling the work of hospitals, banks, and emergency call centers around the country. The cybercrime investigator gathers the information necessary to stop cyber criminals from continuing their nefarious activities. 

Cybercrime investigator skills and experience

This is a multi-functional role in that both investigative techniques and cybersecurity skills must be deployed to correctly gather and preserve evidence for later prosecution. 

The ability to work in a multi-jurisdictional or cross-jurisdictional environment is important. An important aspect of cybercrime is its nonlocal character. Illegal activity can occur in jurisdictions separated by vast distances. This poses severe challenges for cybercrime investigators since these crimes often require international cooperation.

For example, if a person accesses child pornography located on a computer in a country that does not ban child pornography, is that individual committing a crime in a nation where such materials are illegal? The cybercrime investigator must be able to ask and answer questions related to understanding exactly where cybercrime has taken place. 

Top skills requested according to Cyberseek:

• Cyber Threat Intelligence
• Cyber Security
• Incident Response
• Vulnerability
• Computer Science
• Intelligence Analysis
• MITRE ATT&CK Framework
• Security Information And Event Management (SIEM)
• Digital Forensics

Projected skills for cybercrime investigators:

• Threat hunting
• Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)
• Anomaly Detection
• Network Firewalls
• Counter Intelligence

What do cybercrime investigators do?

Most cybercrime investigators work for law enforcement agencies, consulting firms, or business and financial companies. In some cases, cybercrime investigators can be hired, either full-time or freelance, as white hat hackers.

In this role, while often providing penetration testing (pen testing) services, the investigator has the responsibility to examine the defenses of a specific network or digital system. The objective is to find vulnerabilities or other security weaknesses that could be exploited by real adversaries. 

Once investigators gather digital evidence, it must be recorded and cataloged. The evidence is also used to create reports and presented in a court of law, as well. These can all be functions of a cybercrime investigator.

Cybercrime investigator job description

While a detective or law enforcement investigator may investigate various types of crimes, a cybercrime investigator is a specialist that is focused primarily on cyber, or internet-based, crimes.

A cybercrime investigator investigates several crimes that range from recovering file systems on computers that have been hacked or damaged to investigating crimes against children. In addition, cybercrime investigators also recover data from computers that can be used in prosecuting crimes.

Once the necessary electronic evidence is gathered, cybercrime investigators write reports that will later be used in court. Cybercrime investigators must also testify in court.

Cybercrime investigators may also work for large corporations to test security systems that are currently in place. Investigators do this by trying various ways to hack into the corporation’s computer networks. 

Job responsibilities may include:

• Analyzing computer systems and networks following a crime.
• Recovering data that was either destroyed or damaged.
• Gathering evidence.
• Gathering computer and network information.
• Reconstructing cyberattacks.
• Working in a multi-jurisdictional or cross-jurisdictional environment.
• Preparing expert reports on highly complex technical matters.
• Testifying in court.
• Training law enforcement on cyber-related issues.
• Drafting expert testimony, affidavits, and reports.
• Consulting with clients, supervisors, and managers.
• Continually developing investigative and cybersecurity skills through research and training.
• Recovering password-protected/encrypted files and hidden information.
• Assessing software applications, networks, and endpoints for security flaws.
• Identify and recommend methods for the preservation and presentation of evidence.
• An ability to work and collaborate well with a team.

Outlook for Cybercrime Investigators

Because of the early and widespread adoption of computers and the internet in the United States, most of the earliest victims of cybercrime were Americans. By the 21st century, though, hardly a community remained anywhere in the world that had not been touched by cybercrime of one kind or another.

Today, the need for cybercrime investigators is worldwide and rapidly growing. There are no indications that the demand for cybercrime investigators will slow in the foreseeable future.

The proliferation of criminal activity on the internet, such as identity theft, spamming, email harassment, and illegal downloading of copyrighted materials, will increase the demand for investigators. Opportunities are expected to be excellent for cybercrime investigators.

Based on the projected growth of this job in the next five years, employers may also request skills such as threat Hunting, security information and event management (SIEM), anomaly detection, network firewalls, or counterintelligence.

How much do cybercrime investigators make?

According to Salary.com, the salary range of cybercrime investigators in the United States ranges between $44,641 to $59,535 with an annual salary average of $51,491.

However, Indeed reported that the average US Department of the Treasury Cyber Crime Investigator yearly pay in the United States is approximately $139,513, which is 46 percent above the national average as of 2024.

What Does a Cybercrime Investigator Do?

As the name suggests, a cybercrime investigator tracks and analyzes digital crimes such as hacking, online fraud and identity theft. But the role goes far beyond that. These professionals apply advanced technical skills, stay up to date with the latest cybersecurity threats and often play a key role in preventing and prosecuting complex online crimes.

Cybersecurity Guide defines the role this way:

“A cybercrime investigator is a highly skilled and specially-trained investigator or detective. Sought after in both the private and public sectors, these investigators bring the skills needed to unravel today’s sophisticated internet crimes. Billions of dollars are lost every year repairing systems hit by cyberattacks. Some take down vital systems, disrupting and sometimes disabling the work of hospitals, banks, and emergency call centers around the country. The cybercrime investigator gathers the information necessary to stop cyber criminals from continuing their nefarious activities.”

According to the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies, common job duties include:

• Finding and navigating the dark web
• Processing crime scenes
• Conducting interviews of victims/witnesses/suspects
• Examining recovered data for information
• Determining whether a security incident violates a law and requires specific action

As noted by Infosec, a cybercrime investigator might work independently or as part of consulting firms, serving law enforcement agencies, corporations or government organizations. Others are employed directly by companies or agencies. Many choose to specialize in areas such as:

• Identity theft and financial crimes
• Cyberstalking and harassment
• Online drug trafficking
• Human trafficking
• Child exploitation and abuse

Cybercrime is constantly evolving, and so is the role of the investigator. It’s a dynamic, high-stakes career path for those with a passion for justice and digital forensics.

Steps to Becoming a Cybercrime Investigator

1. Start with the right degree. Most cybercrime investigators begin with a bachelor’s in criminal justice, cybersecurity or computer science. This provides the foundation for understanding both the legal and technical sides of the job.
2. Gain hands-on experience. Certifications can certainly help, but experience matters most. Internships, entry-level IT or law enforcement roles and digital forensics exposure are all great ways to build your skills early on.
3. Add certifications when you’re ready. While they aren’t always required, certifications like Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) can boost your credibility and make you stand out to employers.
4. Stay up to date. The cybercrime field changes fast. Make it a habit to read cybersecurity news, research papers and industry blogs. The more current your knowledge, the more valuable you’ll be in your role.
5. Keep learning. Cybercrime and computer forensics are always evolving. You’ll need to keep sharpening your skills through courses, on-the-job training or advanced study.
6. Get involved in professional organizations. Groups like the BCS Cybercrime Forensics Specialist Group or the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) offer resources, connections and opportunities for growth.
7. Consider a specialty. As you gain experience, you might focus on a specific area — like identity theft, cyberstalking or financial crimes. Specializing can help you stand out and become more passionate about your work.

Cybercrime Investigator Hard Skills

To give you an idea of what skills cyber crime jobs demand, here are some examples compiled from recent LinkedIn job postings for cyber investigators:

• Experience with IT investigations and digital forensics
• Knowledge of information security basics
• Experience with evidence documentation (for use in court)
• Ability to coordinate with external law enforcement agencies, courts and others as needed
• Strong analytical and data skills to investigate diverse types of fraud
• Effective time-management skills and ability to multitask
• Experience in E-crimes, intelligence analysis, threat and/or cybercrime research and open-source intelligence gathering
• Proficiency in SQL
• Cloud computing experience
• Exposure to the software development lifecycle

Cybercrime Investigator Soft Skills

According to the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies, successful cybercrime investigators often demonstrate the following soft skills:

• Curiosity: A natural drive to explore, question and dig deeper into complex problems
• Persistence: The determination to pursue leads and follow through on challenging cases
• Strong communication: The ability to clearly convey findings and collaborate with various teams
• Effective information use: Skilled in gathering, evaluating and applying data
• Critical thinking: Capable of analyzing situations and making sound decisions under pressure

In addition, these universally valued soft skills can strengthen your effectiveness in any cyber-related role:

• Problem solving
• Self direction
• Motivation and drive
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Dependability and accountability
• Conflict resolution
• Leadership
• Integrity

Education Required for a Cybercrime Investigator

To launch a career as a cybercrime investigator, most employers look for candidates with a bachelor’s degree as a starting point. These majors are most commonly accepted:

• Criminal Justice: To build a strong foundation in legal systems, investigative techniques and evidence handling
• Cybersecurity: To understand digital threats, system vulnerabilities and prevention strategies
• Computer Science: To gain deep technical knowledge of systems, coding and networks

Some programs also offer concentrations in digital forensics or cybercrime, which can be especially valuable for this career path.

While a master’s degree isn’t mandatory, it can give you a competitive edge — particularly for roles in government agencies, supervisory positions or highly technical investigative work.

Advanced education demonstrates a commitment to the field and can expand your skill set in areas like data analytics, threat intelligence and advanced network security.

In addition to a degree, employers often look for relevant coursework or experience in:

• Networking and system architecture
• Law enforcement procedures
• Digital evidence collection and preservation
• Ethical hacking or penetration testing

Pursuing internships during or after your degree program — especially with law enforcement, private investigation firms or cybersecurity consultancies — can also help build real-world experience and establish valuable industry connections.

Certifications Required

While a formal certification is not always required to become a cybercrime investigator, earning one (or several) can boost your credibility, demonstrate specialized knowledge and help you stand out in a competitive job market.

Certifications can validate your skills in areas such as digital forensics, ethical hacking, information security and incident response. They also show prospective employers your commitment to continuous learning and staying up to date in a fast-evolving field.

There are training programs specifically designed to prepare you for cybercrime investigation roles, many of which culminate in valuable industry-recognized credentials. The National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies (NICCS) also offers a variety of certificate programs in digital forensics and cybersecurity topics.

Here are some certifications that may be especially beneficial:

• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Teaches how to think and act like a hacker to better prevent attacks
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): Demonstrates expertise in designing and managing cybersecurity programs
• Certified Computer Forensics Examiner (CCFE): Offered by the Information Assurance Certification Review Board; focuses on forensic analysis, investigations and evidence handling
• GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA): Focuses on advanced incident response and computer forensic analysis
• CompTIA Security+: An entry-level certification that covers essential cybersecurity skills
• EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE): Specializes in using EnCase software for digital evidence recovery and analysis
• Certified Cyber Forensics Professional (CCFP): Aimed at experienced professionals involved in cybercrime investigations

These certifications and others can help bridge experience gaps, qualify you for more advanced roles or position you for specialized investigations within law enforcement, private security or corporate cybersecurity teams.

Cybercrime Investigator vs. Similar Titles

A search for cybercrime investigator will turn up a variety of job titles, including:

• Cyber investigator
• Cyber fraud investigator
• Internet crime investigator
• Cyber threat investigator
• Dark web analyst
• Computer forensics investigator
• Surveillance investigator
• Compliance investigator
• Policy enforcement investigator
• Financial crimes investigator
• Criminal investigator
• Threat intelligence analyst
• Information security analyst
• Senior cybersecurity analyst

Cybercrime Investigator Job Description

Cybercrime investigators are largely responsible for finding and stopping criminals who operate online. They work for law enforcement, government agencies or private companies to investigate digital crimes and prevent future attacks. When searching for cybercrime investigator jobs, the following are some of the typical responsibilities listed:

• Conduct forensic analysis of digital evidence, including hard drives, mobile devices and cloud environments, in compliance with legal standards.
• Investigate cybercrimes such as data breaches, phishing schemes, ransomware attacks, identity theft and financial fraud.
• Collect, preserve and document evidence for potential use in criminal prosecutions or civil litigation.
• Collaborate with law enforcement and intelligence agencies at the local, state, federal or international level.
• Prepare comprehensive investigative reports and deliver findings to internal stakeholders or legal authorities.
• Utilize open-source intelligence (OSINT) and cyber threat intelligence to uncover patterns, suspects and connections.
• Analyze network traffic and log data to identify unauthorized access or suspicious activity.
• Keep up to date with evolving cyber threats and techniques, tools and procedures used by malicious actors.
• Assist with the development of security protocols and recommendations to prevent future incidents.
• Test and evaluate forensic tools and investigative technologies for accuracy, compliance and efficiency.

Responsibilities vary by employer and role focus, but all cybercrime professionals need keen attention to detail, strong analytical skills and a solid understanding of both technology and the law.

How to Move Up the Cybercrime Investigator Ranks

If you’re interested in becoming a cybercrime investigator but have little or no experience, don’t worry, there are clear steps you can take to build a strong foundation. A great place to start is by earning a relevant bachelor’s degree, such as in cybersecurity, computer science or criminal justice. These programs typically offer coursework in digital forensics, information systems and cyber law — all essential knowledge areas for anyone entering the field.

Pairing your education with a hands-on internship can make a significant difference. Internships with law enforcement agencies, government cybersecurity offices or private security firms allow you to apply classroom learning to real-world investigations and build valuable professional connections.

While experience is one of the most important factors for advancement, it’s not the only one. Earning certifications can demonstrate your technical abilities and commitment to professional growth. Although an advanced degree is typically not required, it can boost your qualifications and help you specialize in areas like threat intelligence, digital forensics or cyber policy.

It comes down to the right combination of education, experience and credentials that allow you to chart a rewarding path in cybercrime investigation.

Where Do Cyber Crime Investigators Work?

Cybercrime investigators are in demand across a wide range of industries and organizations. Here are some of the most common work environments:

• Law enforcement agencies: Many cybercrime investigators work for local, state or federal law enforcement agencies, including police departments, the FBI, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and other government bodies. In these roles, investigators often assist with criminal cases involving fraud, identity theft, cyberstalking, ransomware and more.
• Cybersecurity consulting firms: Some investigators work for third-party firms that provide cybersecurity services to a range of clients. These roles may involve digital forensics, risk assessment and analysis for companies that have experienced a data breach or cyberattack.
• Private corporations: Large businesses, especially in industries such as finance, healthcare and tech, keep in-house cybersecurity teams to monitor networks, investigate breaches and mitigate any threats. Investigators in this setting often work closely with information security analysts and IT staff.
• Government and National Security Organizations: Beyond law enforcement, cyber investigators are also needed in intelligence and defense agencies to help protect national infrastructure, investigate cyber espionage and combat a wide-range of attacks.

Companies Hiring Cybercrime Investigators

A quick search of cybercrime-related positions on popular job sites will generate thousands of postings. Cybercrime investigators are no exception, although it’s important to point out that the search term “cyber investigator” turns up more results on both LinkedIn and Indeed. As we mentioned, you will also see search results with varying job titles, such as cyber fraud investigator, cyber threat investigator, senior cybersecurity analyst, senior cyber forensics investigator and many more.

Here is a sample of companies across a wide variety of industries that are hiring for these types of positions:

• Fidelity Investments
• Yahoo
• Amazon
• LinkedIn
• Peloton Interactive
• Google
• Facebook
• Netflix
• Microsoft
• Twitter
• U.S. Department of Transportation
• U.S Secret Service
• Verizon Media
• NASCAR
• MGM Resorts International
• Adidas

Cybercrime Investigator Career Outlook

The outlook for information security analyst, which is a related position, is very promising: Employment is projected to grow 33% by 2033 (much faster than the average for all occupations), according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Demand is expected to be very high.

Cyberseek’s Supply/Demand Heat Map shows 457,398 total cybersecurity job openings with a low supply of cybersecurity workers — only enough to fill 83% of jobs.