Idiographic Digital Profiling: Behavioral Analysis Based on Digital Footprints

Abstract

Idiographic digital profiling (IDP) is the application of behavioral analysis to the field of digital forensics. Previous work in this field takes a nomothetic approach to behavioral analysis by attempting to understand the aggregate behaviors of cybercriminals.  This work is the first to take an idiographic approach by examining a particular subject's digital footprints for immediate use in an ongoing investigation.   IDP provides a framework for investigators to analyze digital behavioral evidence for the purposes of case planning, subject identification, lead generation, obtaining and executing warrants, and prosecuting offenders.