Research how network-connected devices, such as a smartphone, can be used in a network forensics investigation. Discuss at least two cases.
Network-connected devices 1) Mobile Device as a Source of Evidence in a Cyberbullying Case:
In cases of cyberbullying, network forensics plays a crucial role in identifying the perpetrator and gathering evidence. Consider a situation where a teenager reports being harassed and bullied through social media on their smartphone. In such a scenario, network forensics can involve the examination of the smartphone and associated network activities.
- Device Artifacts: Forensic investigators can analyze the smartphone for artifacts such as text messages, social media posts, or images related to the cyberbullying incidents. This may involve examining the device’s storage, logs, and databases.
- Network Traffic Analysis: Investigators can analyze network traffic associated with the smartphone. This includes monitoring communication between the device and social media servers or messaging platforms. Unusual patterns or suspicious connections may reveal the source of the harassment.
- Metadata Examination: Photos or messages exchanged during the cyberbullying incidents may contain metadata such as timestamps and geolocation. This information can be crucial in establishing a timeline of events and the physical location of the involved parties.
Network-connected devices 2) Smartphone Involvement in a Corporate Espionage Investigation:
Imagine a corporate espionage case where an employee is suspected of stealing sensitive information from a company. Network forensics, including the examination of the employee’s smartphone, can be instrumental in building a case.
- Email and Communication Analysis: Forensic investigators can examine emails and communication apps on the smartphone to trace any unauthorized exchange of confidential information. This may involve analyzing attachments, timestamps, and communication patterns.
- Cloud Storage and Syncing: Smartphones often have cloud integration. Investigators can analyze cloud storage services linked to the device to identify any uploads or downloads of sensitive files. This may involve examining cloud access logs and timestamps.
- Endpoint Security Analysis: By analyzing the smartphone’s security settings and installed applications, investigators can determine whether the device was compromised or if there were unauthorized access attempts. This can provide insights into whether the employee was working alone or with external collaborators.
