Introduction
With the increasing reliance on digital evidence in forensic investigations, the risk of tampering has become one of the greatest challenges for digital forensic experts. Even minor alterations in data can undermine the credibility of evidence and render it legally invalid. Therefore, it is crucial to understand methods of detecting tampering and applying effective preventive measures.
1. Methods of Digital Evidence Tampering
Direct Modification: Editing or deleting files to conceal important evidence.
Overwriting Data: Replacing original data with misleading information.
Timestamp Forgery: Altering creation or modification dates of files to mislead investigators.
Data Hiding (Steganography): Embedding hidden information within images or multimedia files.
Malware Attacks: Using viruses or Trojans to alter or destroy digital evidence.
2. Methods of Detecting Tampering
Hashing Techniques: Comparing hash values between original and examined copies.
Metadata Forensic Analysis: Checking file creation and modification times to uncover inconsistencies.
Digital Recovery Tools: Restoring deleted or altered files.
Behavioral Pattern Monitoring: Analyzing abnormal activities on devices or networks.
3. Methods of Preventing Tampering
Encryption: Protecting evidence during transmission and storage.
Chain of Custody: Documenting every step in the handling of digital evidence.
Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Monitoring and detecting tampering attempts or cyberattacks.
Regular Updates and Security Patches: Preventing exploitation of system vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
Tampering with digital evidence poses a serious threat to justice. However, through a combination of preventive measures and detection techniques, forensic investigators can maintain the credibility of investigations and ensure the integrity of judicial processes.
University of Al-Mustaqbal – The First University in Iraq