As we journey through the digital age, the importance of uncovering and analyzing cyber intrusions becomes ever more critical. The complexities and diversities of these cyberattacks demand a focused and rigorous approach towards digital evidence investigation.

Introduction

With the continual rise of cybercrimes, the process of 'digital evidence investigation' is rapidly gaining prominence and importance in delivering justice and maintaining cybersecurity. This process, unlike traditional investigative methods, employs advanced digital forensics techniques to retrieve, validate, and interpret electronic data to provide a conclusive and reportable result. It is a game of numbers, codes, and unmasking disguised intentions which could lead to potential threats.

The essence of Digital Evidence Investigation

'Digital evidence investigation' has a prominent role in uncovering the concealed clues left by hackers and cybercriminals in cyberspace. This evidence might be transient, yet invaluable - ranging from server logs, emails, browser histories, and images to more complex data like network packets or proprietary device firmware. The precise interpretation of these types of data can provide rich insights about a potential cyber intrusion and help identify the culprits behind it.

Step by Step Approach to Digital Evidence Investigation

1. Identification of Evidence

Unlike physical evidence, digital evidence is hidden in codes and encryptions, which makes identifying it a challenging task. It could be present anywhere within the digital space such as computer systems, storage devices, network infrastructure, or portable devices like laptops, smartphones, tablets.

2. Acquisition of Evidence

Once the evidence is identified, the next crucial step is acquisition. The investigator must ensure that the evidence is acquired securely without any loss or modification. Specialised tools such as disk imaging software are employed to create exact copies of data storage devices for detailed examination.

3. Preservation of Evidence

Preservation is crucial to maintaining the integrity of digital evidence. Several methods are there to prevent any positional alteration or malicious tampering of the evidence, such as preserving the data in write-protected mode or creating checksums to verify data integrity.

4. Analysis of Evidence

Analysis is where the crux of the investigation lies; it involves meticulous scrutiny of the gathered digital data to draw interpretative conclusions. The examiners employ various forensic tools, like disk analysers and network protocol dissectors, to interpret the hidden data patterns and make sense of the seemingly impenetrable codes.

5. Presentation of Evidence

Lastly, the analysed results must be put together coherently and presented in a manner understandable to non-technical personnel involved in the case. The reports must clearly outline the findings and support them with the corresponding evidence.

The Art and Science of Digital Evidence Investigation

Digital evidence investigation is a blend of art and science - while the use of advanced forensic tools and methodologies forms its scientific aspect, it requires the art of intuition and critical thinking from the investigating officer. The ability to connect statistical dots, interpret the hidden data patterns, and predict the potential intrusion path is what sets successful investigators apart.

The Legalities and Ethics of Digital Evidence Investigation

Another layer of complexity in digital evidence investigation is the constant balance between the need for forensic analysis and the respect for privacy rights. Investigators must act within the bounds of the law, ensuring proper collection and handling of evidence while protecting the fundamental rights of individuals.

Rising Cybersecurity Threats and the Need for Improvised Digital Evidence Investigation

The ever-evolving nature of cyber threats demands advancements in digital evidence investigation as well. With hackers becoming smarter and devising complex intrusion techniques, our investigation methods need to evolve in parallel to counter these growing threats effectively. Therefore, the adoption of AI, machine learning, and threat-intelligent systems is gaining traction in digital forensics.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, unmasking cyber intrusions via 'digital evidence investigation' is a complex yet fascinating process. Technological innovations and advancements in digital forensics are making it possible to combat increasing cybercrime. However, it is worth noting that digital evidence investigation is not just about unearthing and analysing digital clues. It's about understanding the evolving strategies of cybercriminals and staying ahead in the game.