Phases of a Digital Forensics Investigation
The process is meticulous and designed to maintain the integrity of evidence:
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Search and Seizure – Identifying and confiscating devices.
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Evidence Collection – Gathering data without altering its state.
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Securing the Evidence – Preventing tampering.
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Data Acquisition – Copying electronic information.
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Data Analysis – Converting raw data into usable intelligence.
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Assessment – Connecting evidence to a case.
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Documentation and Reporting – Creating a transparent record.
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Expert Witness Testimony – Presenting findings in court.
Tools of the Trade
Key tools include:
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The Sleuth Kit – Analyzing disk images.
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FTK Imager – Creating forensic copies without altering evidence.
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Xplico – Extracting internet traffic data.
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Paladin – A forensic suite based on Ubuntu.
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ProDiscover Forensic – Safeguarding disk evidence and reporting findings.
Each of these tools helps forensic teams process vast data volumes while ensuring evidence remains admissible in court.
