WINNER: Computer Forensics for Dummies

Congratulations to teacher20 for winning a free copy of the book!

Rey Anzaldua began his career recovering lost information from computers about 20 years ago at the University of Texas-Pan American's library.

Little did he know that those skills would lead him to help law enforcement agencies, attorneys and businesses in catching criminals and settling civil disputes.

Now Anzaldua, who teaches computer forensics at South Texas College, is sharing his knowledge with the world.

He co-authored the book Computer Forensics for Dummies, which was published last month. The book explains the basics of retrieving information from computers, cell phones and even vehicles, as well as how to protect one's privacy and security when using those devices.

Anzaldua said other computer experts he collaborated on for another book asked him if they wanted to write a second one. After discussing what audience they wanted to reach, they decided to write a book for the Dummies series, he said.

"(It has) more name recognition," he said.

The book has been so popular it sold out on Amazon.com the first day it was released, Anzaldua said.

Anzaldua said he first got into forensics after serving as an expert witness in a trial in Laredo. He realized he knew more about retrieving information from computers than another expert witness who had performed that task for that particular case.

Since then, Anzaldua has helped everyone from local attorneys to the FBI in retrieving information from electronic devices. He even has received requests from people in the Middle East and Europe.

Anzaldua said he has been focusing on his teaching at STC and book writing lately but still consults on the side. The Dummies book, however, has led more people to contact him for help, including the U.S. Navy.

But Anzaldua said he's staying put in the Rio Grande Valley and plans to continue focusing on his teaching career. STC opened a computer forensics lab at its main campus on Pecan Boulevard in McAllen that has about $25,000 worth of equipment. It is the most advanced forensics lab south of Austin, he said.

"For me it's like a kid in a candy store," Anzaldua said.

UTPA held a book signing event for Anzaldua last week where he explained what computer forensics is and what privacy issues he and other investigators have to consider when retrieving data.

Ruben Flores, who works for UTPA's computer lab, said he attended the event to support his former instructor.

"He's an excellent teacher. He explains everything and makes it real simple," said Flores.

Flores bought a copy of the book and said he's looking forward to what Anzaldua has to say.

"It's just interesting to read and pick up new skills," he said.

Jennifer L. Berghom covers education and general assignments for The Monitor. She can be reached at (956) 683-4462.