Mapping Industry Demands for Digital Forensics: A Study of Penetration Tester Requirements

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Source of Publication

2025 12th IFIP International Conference on New Technologies Mobility and Security Ntms 2025

Publication Date

7-18-2025

Abstract

The field of digital forensics and cybercrime investigation is evolving rapidly, yet continues to face a significant skills gap. This paper presents an empirical analysis of the expertise expected from penetration testers—key actors in proactive and reactive digital investigations. We analyzed job postings across Australia, Canada, the UK, and the US to extract current trends in required technical competencies, soft skills, certifications, programming languages, and tools relevant to digital forensic readiness. Notably, documentation and teamwork emerged as top soft and technical skills, while OSCP certification, Go language, and Metasploit were among the most desired qualifications. Our findings underscore the importance of aligning educational pathways with market demands and call for clearer articulation of technical requirements by employers. This research contributes to the broader digital forensics domain by helping to standardize skill expectations, improve workforce preparedness, and inform policy-making, curriculum design, and recruitment strategies.

ISBN

[9798331552763]

First Page

8

Last Page

16

Disciplines

Computer Sciences

Keywords

Cybersecurity, Forensics, Penetration testing, Skills

Scopus ID

105012573618

Indexed in Scopus

yes

Open Access

no

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