Digital forensics adoption model for Malaysian Law Enforcement Agencies (MLEAs)

Abstract

The increasing number of digital forensics (DF) cases has resulted in the surge of cybercrimes leading to the need for DF to be used in Malaysian Law Enforcement Agencies (MLEAs). This is to enable the agencies to conduct an efficient digital investigation. In spite of the notable benefits of DF, adoption of this innovation by MLEAs is not widely accepted. Currently, there are limited studies conducted on DF adoption in the context of law enforcement agencies. Hence, in addressing the issue, this study investigated potential factors influencing DF adoption by MLEAs. This study proposed and developed a research model based on the combined Technology Organization and Environment (TOE) framework and Institutional Theory and Human Organization Technology (HOT)-fit model that uses quantitative approach. The research model was developed based on an extensive review of the literature. Twelve hypotheses were developed for the quantitative approach to test the model. A survey method using paper based questionnaire was employed. Based on purposive sampling, questionnaires were distributed to 180 decision makers of the MLEAs and the data were analysed using the Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) with Partial Least Squares (PLS) technique. The findings were used to develop a Digital Forensic Adoption Model that facilitates the understanding of factors affecting DF adoption by MLEAs. The results indicated that Relative Advantage (B=0.210,t=3.526,p<0.001), Compatibility (B=0.225,t=3.523,p<0.001), Coercive Pressure (B=0.200,t=2.562,p<0.01), Normative Pressure (B=0.171,t=2.386,p<0.01), Vendor Support (B=0.203,t=3.128,p<0.01), and Perceived Technical Competence (B=0.121,t=1.851,p<0.05) were the most significant factors driving the decision of MLEAs to adopt DF. Besides that, it was found that the agency size had no significant difference in the impact of perceived technical competence on the decision to adopt DF (B=0.158,t=1.186,p>0.05). The study has theoretical contributions and practical implications whereby the Digital Forensics Adoption Model serves as a tool for MLEAs to gain insight into the process of DF adoption in their working practice.