AI IN DIGITAL FORENSICS: TACKLING EVOLVING CYBER THREATS AND ETHICAL CHALLENGES

As cyber threats become more sophisticated, digital forensics faces increasing challenges in investigating and countering cybercrimes. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has proven to be an effective tool in digital forensics, aiding automated data analysis, pattern recognition, and threat detection. AI-based solutions enhance the speed and accuracy of forensic analysis, enabling analysts to manage large volumes of digital evidence effectively. However, the AI implementation also introduces significant ethical concerns, including fears of bias in forensic algorithms, data privacy, and the misuse of AI-enabled tools. Furthermore, the opaque nature of AI-driven decision-making raises legal and accountability issues. This paper examines the evolving landscape of cyber threats, the role of AI in digital forensics, and the associated challenges. It discusses future trends in AI applications for forensic investigations, emphasising the need for regulatory frameworks, ethical AI design, and the development of explainable AI (XAI) to foster trust and reliability. Once these challenges are addressed, AI can serve as an effective instrument in combating cybercrime while promoting fairness and transparency in digital forensic activities.