Noroff University College in Kristiansand launch full investigation after a victim of economic fraud contacts the school.
The offender seemingly misused the victim's trust, in order to gain unauthorized access to computer systems and possibly sensitive material.
Physical and social hacking
Social engineering, or social manipulation, seem to have given the offender access to sensitive digital information, and electronic ”doorways” to other computer systems.
The motive is most likely financial gain.
After a combined assessment, the likeliness of capturing the offender combined with the size of the stolen amount, the Norwegian National Authority for Investigation and Prosecution of Economic and Environmental Crime (ØKOKRIM) do not wish to give the case a high priority. Local law enforcement have also not been able to provide further assistance.
On site forensics
The victim then contacts Noroff, who see an opportunity to use their professional work stations, work methods and competence, to aid the investigation. The forensics team consists of prof. Iain Sutherland, who does active research in IT security and forensics. To assist prof. Sutherland are digital forensics students Hermann Strømme and Timmi Lee.
They have been at the scene with a field kit and completed on site forensics. Confiscated material include USB memory sticks, Mac and PC systems, routers/firewalls, and wireless infrastructure.
Valuable learning outcomes
"We have the equipment, the competence and the will to aid in these circumstances." Ernst Sundt, principal, Noroff University College
Ernst Sundt, principal of Noroff University College, says it's a good experience for students to participate in real projects: - We have the equipment, the competence and the will to aid in these circumstances, he says, and adds that the learning outcomes of practicing alongside professor Iain Sutherland is very valuable for our students. He encorages other businesses or private citizens in similar situations to contact the school.
Because the investigation is ongoing, the Noroff team do not wish to give out any more details at this time.
