Robert D'Ovidio, PhD

Associate Professor, Department of Criminology and Justice Studies
Expertise Criminal Justice

D'Ovidio researches the intersection of computer technology, crime and the criminal justice system. He directs Drexel's research program in computer crime and digital forensics. In the past, he has worked with the New York City Police Department and Philadelphia Police Department on research projects involving computer crime. His work with the law enforcement community also includes training investigators on techniques to trace Internet communication and seize electronic evidence and cell phones.

He is a member of the International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists, the American Society of Criminology, and the United States Secret Service Philadelphia- Area Electronic Crimes Task Force. D'Ovidio sits on the National Governors Association's Strategic Policy Council on Cyber and Electronic Crime. He serves as an advisor to the Pennsylvania State Treasurer on identity theft and is a consultant to BK Forensics, assisting with law enforcement outreach and the development of training curriculum. He provides regular commentary for media outlets on news stories pertaining to computer crime, Internet safety, identity theft and surveillance.

In The News

Philadelphia-based Content Creators, Expert Weigh In on Possible TokTok Ban
Robert D'Ovidio, PhD, an associate professor in the College of Arts and Sciences, was quoted in a Jan. 16 KYW-TV (CBS3) segment about safety and security concerns pertaining to the app TikTok.
Bob’s Discount Furniture Offline; Chain Blames ‘Unforeseen Technical Difficulties'
Robert D'Ovidio, PhD, an associate professor in the College of Arts and Sciences, was interviewed during an Sept. 28 WPVI-TV (6-abc) segment about a network disruption at Bob’s Discount Furniture and how to protect yourself against malware attacks.
Disruptions From Global Technology Outage
Robert D'Ovidio, PhD, an associate professor in the College of Arts and Sciences, was interviewed during a July 19 WPVI-TV (6-abc) news segment about a worldwide technology outage stemming from a flawed cybersecurity software update that affected companies using Microsoft Windows.
Pennsylvania School District Says Students Impersonated Teachers With Fake TikTok Accounts
Robert D'Ovidio, PhD, an associate professor in the College of Arts and Sciences, was interviewed during a July 8 KYW-TV (CBS-3) news segment about fake online accounts and how authorities can track down those users with intent to harass or intimidate.

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Rob D'Ovidio Q & A with Rob D'Ovidio
DrexelNow recently chatted with Rob D’Ovidio, associate professor of criminal justice and director of Drexel’s program in computer crime and digital forensics.