Hi Guys,

Come this September, I will have to start my final year project as part of my degree studying "Computer Forensics". The project must unique and relevant to forensics.

My idea was to created an android based app whereby the user can extract data from the phone (SMS, Geodata, Images, Audio Records etc). I would then link the data to provide information like - Where the person was when the text message was sent.

I'm aware this idea isn't unique, so i'm posting on here to ask for ideas as to how i can adapt such program to benefit an investigator for example.

Any ideas are welcome!

Thanks in advance,

James

Page 3 - For Updates.  

Last edited by JWasley on Mon Nov 26, 2012 12:49 pm; edited 1 time in total

First thing I would say is it isnt "forensically sound" to install apps on an exhibit... It is done if there is no other way, but personally, installing an app on the device to extract data is more of a last resort....

If you could make a pc / mac based tool that extracts data from androids then that would be a better start  

- cyrus

First thing I would say is it isnt "forensically sound" to install apps on an exhibit... It is done if there is no other way, but personally, installing an app on the device to extract data is more of a last resort....

If you could make a pc / mac based tool that extracts data from androids then that would be a better start

Thanks for your post Cyrus. This was one of the suggestions made to me when I put the idea to friends.

If i was to change the program to be PC based, where could you see improvements? I have yet to design the idea, so i'm open to any suggestions.  

You know what would be really interesting is if you designed an app to run ion a phone that you could use on another phone via Bluetooth or a cable. A forensic tool app.

That might sound crazy but it would be cool if you could work that out.

Just a thought.  

- cplynch

You know what would be really interesting is if you designed an app to run ion a phone that you could use on another phone via Bluetooth or a cable. A forensic tool app.

That might sound crazy but it would be cool if you could work that out.

Just a thought.

Could you expand? Do you mean like a "remote desktop tool"....  

- cplynch

You know what would be really interesting is if you designed an app to run ion a phone that you could use on another phone via Bluetooth or a cable. A forensic tool app.

I think this would still violate the ACPO principles of not altering the original exhibit if you paired the devices using a Bluetooth connection, a cable option might still require drivers (not entirely sure on that one)

It certainly is an interesting idea, XRY had a similar type of issue when examining Symbian phone, you had to install an app that would enable communication between the mobile device and the forensic workstation, then clear the app off afterwards.

There are many applications out there that perform this type of service, even down to using AT commands to access the data, so a different idea might prove more original.

Do you want your project to focus on mobile devices specifically or are you free to choose any area you want? What are your core strengths with regards to topical knowledge? My advice would be if you are good at a particular topic, or have a key skill, then utilise them in the project!! I picked A-Levels based on what I wanted to be when I was older, not what I could get A's in, and it was a huge mistake! So pick a project on what you know best, it might not be cutting edge, or provide the community with a better insight into a topic, thats what PhDs are for, instead you need to focus on getting the best grade, even if it means your project appears a little dull.

I'll rack the noodle for a few topic ideas when you let us know your strengths.

Simon  

Thanks for your post Scuzz.

As my project isn't due for another 10 months (ish), I'm only jotting down ideas.

The reason behind the android app was to allow me to learn something new. I've been taught Java over the past two years, but have never dealt with the android platform. At the same time, I don't want to put myself into the situation you placed yourself when doing A-Levels.

It's hard to tell you my strengths. The expression "I know a little about a lot, but not a lot about a little." springs to mind.  

Last edited by JWasley on Tue Nov 27, 2012 10:07 am; edited 2 times in total