Cybercrime & Digital Evidence Glossary (A–Z) | Spanish-English
A Professional Gift to the Interpreting Community from Samuel Arcelay
Cybercrime & Digital Evidence
The Silent Crime Scene: In the modern era, the "smoking gun" is rarely a firearm; it is a timestamp in a server log, a geolocation coordinate on a smartphone, or a hash value verifying a downloaded file. Evidence is no longer physical—it is ephemeral, invisible, and easily altered.
For the legal interpreter, this section presents a formidable challenge. The vocabulary is abstract. Terms like blockchain, virtual machine, and encryption describe concepts that have no physical counterpart, yet are as concrete as a fingerprint in a trial.
A
Access LogRegistro de acceso
Definition: Digital record showing when users accessed a system, device, or file.
Notes: Key for establishing timelines.
Notes: Key for establishing timelines.
Advanced Persistent Threat (APT)Amenaza persistente avanzada
Definition: A prolonged and targeted cyberattack in which an intruder gains access and remains undetected.
AlgorithmAlgoritmo
Definition: Step-by-step computational formula used for encryption, hashing, or data processing.
Anonymous Network (Tor / Proxy)Red anónima (Tor / proxy)
Definition: Network designed to hide user identity and location.
Anti-ForensicsAntiforense
Definition: Techniques used to hamper forensic analysis, such as data wiping or encryption.
API (Application Programming Interface)API (Interfaz de programación de aplicaciones)
Definition: Structured method allowing software systems to interact.
Artificial Intelligence MalwareMalware con inteligencia artificial
Definition: Malicious software using AI to adapt, evade detection, or automate attacks.
Authentication ProtocolProtocolo de autenticación
Definition: Method verifying user identity (passwords, biometrics, tokens).
B
BackdoorAcceso trasero (backdoor)
Definition: Hidden method allowing bypass of security controls.
Biometric DataDatos biométricos
Definition: Biological measurements or physical characteristics used to identify individuals.
Bitstream CopyCopia bit a bit
Definition: A complete, bit-for-bit duplicate of a storage medium.
BlockchainCadena de bloques (blockchain)
Definition: Distributed ledger used for cryptocurrencies and secure records.
BotnetRed de bots
Definition: Network of infected devices controlled remotely for attacks.
Breach NotificationNotificación de violación de datos
Definition: Mandatory disclosure of data breaches to affected individuals.
Brute Force AttackAtaque de fuerza bruta
Definition: Repeated guessing of passwords or encryption keys.
Business Email Compromise (BEC)Compromiso de correo empresarial
Definition: Fraud scheme using spoofed or hacked business emails to steal funds.
C
Cache DataDatos en caché
Definition: Temporarily stored information used for faster processing.
Chain of Custody (Digital)Cadena de custodia (digital)
Definition: Documentation showing the seizure, custody, control, analysis, and disposition of digital evidence.
Cloud StorageAlmacenamiento en la nube
Definition: Remote servers where digital data is stored and accessed via the internet.
Command-and-Control Server (C2)Servidor de comando y control (C2)
Definition: Server used by attackers to control malware or botnets.
Credential TheftRobo de credenciales
Definition: Unauthorized acquisition of usernames, passwords, or tokens.
CryptocurrencyCriptomoneda
Definition: A digital currency in which transactions are verified by a decentralized system using cryptography.
CyberattackCiberataque
Definition: Deliberate attempt to disrupt, damage, or access computer systems.
CyberstalkingAcoso cibernético
Definition: Persistent online harassment or monitoring.
D
Dark WebInternet oscura (dark web)
Definition: Hidden part of the internet accessible through special software like Tor.
Data BreachViolación de datos
Definition: Unauthorized access to sensitive information.
Data IntegrityIntegridad de datos
Definition: Assurance that digital information has not been altered.
Denial-of-Service Attack (DoS / DDoS)Ataque de denegación de servicio (DoS/DDoS)
Definition: Overloading a system with traffic to make it unavailable.
Device SeizureConfiscación de dispositivo
Definition: Lawful taking of computers/phones for forensic examination.
Digital FingerprintHuella digital (informática)
Definition: Information collected about a remote computing device for the purpose of identification.
Digital ForensicsInformática forense
Definition: Scientific examination of digital devices for evidence.
E
Electronic Device MetadataMetadatos de dispositivos electrónicos
Definition: Background data showing creation time, location, edits.
Email Header AnalysisAnálisis de encabezado de correo electrónico
Definition: Examination of routing data to verify sender origin.
EncryptionCifrado
Definition: Process of converting data into unreadable form without a key.
Endpoint SecuritySeguridad de endpoint
Definition: Protection of individual devices (endpoints) against cyber threats.
Exfiltration (Data Theft)Exfiltración de datos
Definition: Unauthorized removal or transfer of digital data.
Exploit (Software Vulnerability)Explotación (vulnerabilidad)
Definition: Code or technique that takes advantage of a system flaw.
F
File CarvingRecuperación de archivos (file carving)
Definition: Extracting files from unallocated or damaged storage areas.
File SystemSistema de archivos
Definition: The method and data structure that an OS uses to keep track of files.
Fingerprint (Digital)Huella digital
Definition: Unique identifiers such as hash values that authenticate digital files.
FirewallCortafuegos
Definition: Security system filtering network traffic to block unauthorized access.
Firmware MalwareMalware de firmware
Definition: Malicious code embedded in device firmware; survives resets.
Forensic Image (Disk Image)Imagen forense
Definition: Exact bit-by-bit copy of a digital device for analysis.
Fraudulent DomainDominio fraudulento
Definition: Website designed to imitate legitimate sites for theft.
G
Geofence WarrantOrden geográfica (geofence warrant)
Definition: Warrant requiring tech companies to provide device IDs within a location range.
Geo-Location DataDatos de geolocalización
Definition: Digital information identifying the physical location of a device.
Gigabyte / TerabyteGigabyte / Terabyte
Definition: Units of digital storage used to quantify evidence volume.
Government MalwareMalware gubernamental (Técnica de investigación de redes)
Definition: Authorized software used by law enforcement to identify suspects.
GUI (Graphical User Interface)Interfaz gráfica de usuario (GUI)
Definition: Visual interface enabling user interaction with software.
H
HacktivismHacktivismo
Definition: Hacking activities motivated by political or social causes.
Hardware Write BlockerBloqueador de escritura de hardware
Definition: Tool preventing modification of a digital device during examination.
Hash ValueValor hash
Definition: Unique digital fingerprint that verifies data integrity.
Hidden DirectoryDirectorio oculto
Definition: Folder intentionally concealed using system settings or encryption.
HoneypotTrampa digital / honeypot
Definition: Decoy system used to attract attackers and study their behavior.
I
Identity TheftRobo de identidad
Definition: Unauthorized use of someone’s personal information.
Image HashingHash de imagen
Definition: Applying hash functions to images to track altered or duplicate copies.
Incident ResponseRespuesta a incidentes
Definition: Structured process for addressing breaches or cyber attacks.
Internet of Things (IoT)Internet de las cosas (IoT)
Definition: Network of smart devices that often provide unexpected evidence.
Intrusion Detection System (IDS)Sistema de detección de intrusiones (IDS)
Definition: Tool monitoring networks for unauthorized activity.
IP AddressDirección IP
Definition: Numerical identifier assigned to devices on a network.
J
JailbreakingJailbreaking / desbloqueo de dispositivo
Definition: Removing manufacturer restrictions to access system files.
JavaScript Injection (XSS)Inyección de JavaScript (XSS)
Definition: Attack inserting malicious scripts into a trusted website.
JSON Log FileArchivo de registro JSON
Definition: Log file stored in JavaScript Object Notation format.
Jurisdictional Tracing (Digital)Rastreo jurisdiccional digital
Definition: Determining where online actions originated for legal authority.
K
K-anonymityK-anonimato
Definition: Data-privacy method ensuring individuals cannot be re-identified in datasets.
Kernel-Level MalwareMalware a nivel de núcleo (kernel)
Definition: Deep system modification granting full control to attackers.
KeyloggerRegistrador de teclas (keylogger)
Definition: Software/hardware capturing keystrokes to steal data.
L
Latency (Network Delay)Latencia
Definition: Delay between digital request and response.
Location SpoofingFalsificación de ubicación
Definition: Manipulating a device to appear in a different physical location.
Log File AnalysisAnálisis de archivos de registro
Definition: Examination of system logs to understand user activity.
Logic BombBomba lógica
Definition: Malicious code set to trigger under specific conditions.
M
MAC AddressDirección MAC
Definition: Hardware identifier assigned to network interfaces.
MalwareMalware
Definition: Malicious software including viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware.
Man-in-the-Middle Attack (MITM)Ataque de intermediario (MITM)
Definition: Interception of communication between two parties.
Metadata (File Properties)Metadatos
Definition: Embedded information about file creation, modification, location.
Mobile Device ExtractionExtracción de dispositivo móvil
Definition: Copying data from a smartphone, including deleted data.
N
NAT – Network Address TranslationTraducción de direcciones de red (NAT)
Definition: Multiple devices sharing one IP.
Network ForensicsInformática forense de redes
Definition: Examination of network traffic (packet captures, logs).
Network SnifferSniffer de red
Definition: Tool capturing network traffic for analysis.
Node (Network Point)Nodo
Definition: Any connection point on a network.
NonceNúmero único / nonce
Definition: Random number used once to prevent replay attacks.
O
ObfuscationOfuscación
Definition: Technique used to hide code or data from detection.
Onion RoutingEnrutamiento cebolla
Definition: Layered encryption method used by Tor to mask origin.
Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT)Inteligencia de fuentes abiertas
Definition: Public-source digital intelligence (social media, domain records).
Operating System ArtifactArtefacto del sistema operativo
Definition: Residual data left by system operations revealing user actions.
Overlay MalwareMalware superpuesto
Definition: Malware posing over real apps to steal data.
P
Packet Capture (PCAP)Captura de paquetes (PCAP)
Definition: Recording of network traffic showing communication content.
Packet SniffingIntercepción de paquetes
Definition: Capturing packets for network forensic analysis.
Password HashHash de contraseña
Definition: Encrypted form of a password found in data breaches.
Penetration TestingPruebas de penetración
Definition: Authorized simulated attack on a system.
PhishingPhishing
Definition: Fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive data via deception.
Proxy ServerServidor proxy
Definition: Intermediary server hiding real IP addresses.
Q
QR Code FraudFraude con códigos QR
Definition: Manipulating QR codes to redirect victims to malicious sites.
Quantum EncryptionCifrado cuántico
Definition: High-security encryption using quantum key distribution.
Query LogRegistro de consultas
Definition: Log showing search or database actions.
R
RansomwareRansomware
Definition: Malware that encrypts data and demands payment.
Remote Access Trojan (RAT)Troyano de acceso remoto
Definition: Malware enabling full control of files and cameras.
Rogue Access PointPunto de acceso deshonesto
Definition: Unauthorized Wi-Fi access point mimicking legitimate networks.
RootkitRootkit
Definition: Deep malware that alters OS components to hide itself.
Router LogRegistro del enrutador
Definition: Records of connected devices on a network.
S
Server Mirror / BackupServidor espejo
Definition: Duplicate data copy used to reconstruct deleted evidence.
Session HijackingSecuestro de sesión
Definition: Taking over a user’s active online session.
SIM SwappingSuplantación de SIM
Definition: Illegal transfer of a phone number to bypass security.
Social EngineeringIngeniería social
Definition: The use of deception to manipulate individuals into divulging info.
SpoofingSuplantación
Definition: Falsifying identity in communications (Email/IP/Caller ID).
SpywareSoftware espía
Definition: Software secretly monitoring activity, keystrokes, and cameras.
SQL InjectionInyección SQL
Definition: Injecting code into database queries to access data.
SteganographyEsteganografía
Definition: Concealing messages within other non-secret data like images.
T
Timestamp AnalysisAnálisis de marcas de tiempo
Definition: Reviewing digital times to reconstruct event timelines.
Traffic AnalysisAnálisis de tráfico
Definition: Studying communication patterns to identify attacks.
Trojan HorseTroyano
Definition: Malware disguised as legitimate software.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)Autenticación de dos factores
Definition: Security requiring two forms of identity verification.
U
Unauthorized AccessAcceso no autorizado
Definition: System entry without permission; core cybercrime element.
Unified Log (Apple)Registro unificado
Definition: Centralized logging system on Apple devices showing user activity.
USB ExtractionExtracción por USB
Definition: Copying data via USB, which leaves digital artifacts.
User Privilege EscalationEscalamiento de privilegios
Definition: Illegally gaining higher system access rights.
V
Virtual Machine (VM)Máquina virtual
Definition: Simulated environment used to analyze malware safely.
Voice Over IP (VoIP)Voz sobre IP
Definition: Internet-based communication with subpoena-accessible logs.
VPNRed privada virtual
Definition: Encrypted tunneling connection masking user identity.
Vulnerability ScanEscaneo de vulnerabilidades
Definition: Automated check for system security weaknesses.
W
Warrant CanaryAviso canario
Definition: Indirect notice about secret subpoenas for privacy protection.
Web ForensicsInformática forense web
Definition: Analysis of website logs, typically in phishing cases.
Wi-Fi SniffingIntercepción de Wi-Fi
Definition: Capturing wireless traffic for forensic analysis or attack.
WormGusano informático
Definition: Self-replicating malware spreading across networks.
Write BlockerBloqueador de escritura
Definition: Tool preventing changes to evidence drives during acquisition.
X
XML Log FileArchivo de registro XML
Definition: Structured log format that is easily parsed for review.
XOR EncryptionCifrado XOR
Definition: Simple encryption often used in malware obfuscation.
Y
Yara RulesReglas Yara
Definition: Pattern rules used to identify malware signatures.
YottabyteYottabyte
Definition: Extremely large unit of digital data measurement.
Z
Zero-Day ExploitExploit de día cero
Definition: Vulnerability unknown to software developers.
Zero-Knowledge ProofPrueba de conocimiento cero
Definition: Cryptographic method to prove knowledge without revealing value.
ZettabyteZettabyte
Definition: Massive unit of digital storage measurement.
Zombie ComputerComputadora zombi
Definition: Device controlled remotely as part of a botnet.
Zone Transfer AttackAtaque de transferencia de zona
Definition: Unlawfully copying DNS files to reveal domain structure.
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