194 Chapter 8 · Conducting Cyber Investigations Introduction We often fear most what we don't understand.That could be said about com- puters and the investigation of computer crimes. Many investigators cringe at the mention of a computer and seek to offload any computer-related crime to the "computer crime guy" in their office. Although computers have been around for a few decades, they've finally reached levels where it is feasible to expect that everyone has access to a computer.The computer is no longer a "nice to have," it is a "must have."Those who don't own their own computers can walk into a public library or cyber cafe to gain access to a computer. Similarly, access to the Internet is becoming ubiquitous through connections provided by libraries, coffee shops, computer stores, and even fast food restau- rants.This explosion of computer technology and acceptance has opened up a whole new world of opportunity to the criminal element that constantly looks for new ways to exploit people through time proven scams and tactics. As computers become more deeply integrated within society, it is likely that a