Computer crimes are among the most complex offenses in the digital age, due to their reliance on advanced technologies and the variety of methods used to commit them. The collection of digital evidence is a crucial step in digital forensic investigations, as it provides investigators and courts with reliable proof to establish facts and identify perpetrators.<br /><br />The process of evidence collection begins with securing the digital crime scene, whether it involves a computer, smartphone, or cloud server. Forensic experts then create exact copies (forensic images) of the original data to preserve its integrity. Specialized tools such as FTK Imager and EnCase are used to document and extract files, logs, and traces of digital activity.<br /><br />One of the greatest challenges in this field is the rapid deletion or encryption of evidence, in addition to maintaining the chain of custody, which ensures that the evidence remains admissible in court.<br /><br />Evidence collection in computer crimes is not limited to stored data, but also includes analyzing network traffic, email communications, and system access logs. This requires advanced technical expertise and strong collaboration between law enforcement and judicial authorities.<br /><br />Therefore, collecting digital evidence serves as the cornerstone for achieving justice in computer-related crimes and for combating the growing threats of cybercrime.<br /><br />Al-Mustaqbal University, the first university in Iraq