What is the gathering of data as evidence referred to in cybersecurity?

The gathering of data as evidence in cybersecurity is referred to as eDiscovery. This process involves identifying, collecting, and producing electronically stored information (ESI) relevant to a legal case or investigation. eDiscovery is a crucial element in the legal and compliance sectors, particularly as it pertains to following legal standards and maintaining chain of custody for evidence.

The term specifically emphasizes the electronic nature of the data and the legal framework surrounding its collection and use. It entails procedures that ensure collected evidence is admissible in court, adhering to laws and regulations. This can include data from emails, documents, social media, and other digital formats, which require specialized tools and methodologies to extract and analyze.

While data collection and discovery are related terms that could be used in various contexts, they do not fully encapsulate the specific legal implications and formalities that eDiscovery entails. Additionally, eCollection usually refers to the technical process of gathering data, but eDiscovery includes the legal and procedural aspects necessary for that data to be used effectively in an investigative or prosecutorial setting.