As the volume of digital data continues to grow and cybercrime networks operate across national borders, prosecutors face the challenge of presenting complex evidence in a clear and accessible way. Katharina Ohnesorge, a public prosecutor at the Bavarian Central Office for the Prosecution of Cybercrime, part of the Office of the Public Prosecutor General in Bamberg, Germany, shares why effective collaboration between investigators and prosecutors, the ability to identify links across cases, and international cooperation are becoming increasingly important in tackling cybercrime.

1. From a prosecution perspective, what are some of the biggest challenges when turning digital evidence into a successful cybercrime case, particularly in complex investigations involving online platforms and digital assets?

In my experience, the biggest challenges we face in our cases are the ever-increasing volumes of data, which must be presented in a way that is easy to understand. Other challenges are the incredibly rapid pace of digitalisation – which constantly opens up new ways of committing crimes in the digital sphere and the international networks formed by offenders. As criminal offences do not stop at national borders, international cooperation is therefore becoming increasingly important.

2. How can investigators and prosecutors work more effectively together when dealing with complex cybercrime investigations?

It is essential to centralise public authorities and, consequently, knowledge, as well as to utilise tools that enable information to be processed effectively and connections to be identified. Identifying links between cases or specific phenomena – even across different authorities – saves resources at both police and public prosecution service level.

3. What is something you are particularly looking forward to discussing or exploring at DFC 2026?

I am looking forward to the international exchange and to gaining fresh perspectives on this field of work.

4. Why do you think conferences like the Digital Forensics Conference are important for professionals working in this area?

I believe that networking and the exchange of information are essential.