IT FORENSICS · LINUX

IT Forensics for Linux – Server and conducting forensically sound investigations of systems

Linux-Server and Linux systems present significant forensic challenges due to their wide variety of distributions, file systems and configuration options. We provide support in the event of security incidents, suspected compromises, or as part of judicial and internal corporate investigations.

We place particular emphasis on employing a methodology tailored to the specific distribution and configuration, as well as cross-checking key findings using multiple forensic tools and manual verification.

Specialising in Linux
Documentation admissible in court
GDPR-compliant processing
Experienced experts

BASICS OF LINUX FORENSICS

How a forensic examination of Linux systems is carried out

We secure and analyse Linux-Server and systems regardless of distribution or file system – from ext4, XFS, Btrfs and ZFS, through container environments such as Docker and Kubernetes, to system logs and persistence mechanisms. The enormous variety of Linux configurations means that key findings must be cross-checked using multiple tools.

OUR APPROACH

This is how your examination will be carried out

A transparent process – from the initial enquiry to the handover of the report.

1
We clarify the issue at hand, as well as the distribution, file system and configuration of the system in question, as forensic procedures vary depending on the environment.
2
Affected systems, Server or containers are backed up for forensic analysis; hash values document data integrity throughout the process.
3
Depending on the problem at hand, we analyse file systems, persistence mechanisms, container environments, or Server and network protocols.
4
Given the wide variety of Linux configurations, key findings are cross-checked using several forensic tools as well as manual verification.
5
The findings are documented in a clear and comprehensive report that can be used by the courts, businesses or insurance companies.

TYPICAL QUESTIONS

When is a forensic examination of Linux systems advisable?

  • ✔File systems (ext4, XFS, Btrfs, ZFS, LVM)
  • ✔Persistence mechanisms (systemd, Cron, kernel modules, rootkits)
  • ✔Containers and virtualisation (Docker, Kubernetes, Podman, LXC)
  • ✔Network connections and configuration
  • ✔Package management and Server services (Apache, Nginx)
  • ✔User accounts, sudo logs and privilege escalation
  • ✔Methodology, tools and quality assurance
  • ✔Incident response and collaboration with IT departments

LIMITATIONS & CONCLUSION

What you should know

We investigate Linux-Server and systems in the event of security incidents, suspected compromises, or as part of judicial and internal corporate investigations. Our services include, amongst other things, the analysis of file systems, container environments, persistence mechanisms and Server protocols, as well as cross-checking key findings using multiple forensic tools.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

What our customers say

4.8 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot · 54 reviews

★★★★★

“The highest standards of professionalism, prompt service and excellent communication. They made the seemingly impossible a reality. This is what genuine customer service is all about – unrivalled in Germany!”

idalein

Verified review on Trustpilot

★★★★★

“Very helpful advice, excellent responsiveness and communication. My problem was completely resolved and the lost data was recovered. I’m very satisfied and, of course, relieved!”

Layla Pankratz

Verified review on Trustpilot

★★★★★

“My problem was sorted out professionally and quickly; everyone I spoke to was always friendly, and I can still get in touch if I have any questions – I’m very grateful for that!”

a woman from Cologne

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Enquire now – free initial consultation

Do you need assistance with the forensic examination of a Linux system? LanCologne backs up and examines Linux Server systems in a manner appropriate to the distribution, ensuring that the process is reproducible and documented to a standard that stands up in court.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

Click on a question to see the answer.

Why is an understanding of the ext4 file system fundamental to Linux forensics?
ext4 remains one of the most widely used Linux file systems to this day on Servern, Workstations and numerous embedded systems. It organises data using inodes, extents and a journal, which protects write operations against system crashes. From a forensic perspective, understanding this structure is an essential prerequisite for the proper examination of traditional Linux systems.
What distinguishes the forensic analysis of Docker containers from a traditional system investigation?
Docker containers encapsulate applications within isolated runtime environments, thereby creating their own configuration, log and metadata structures, which differ from the traditional forensic analysis of a complete operating system.
How are rootkits detected forensically on Linux?
Rootkits are designed to embed a compromise within a system permanently and in a way that is invisible to standard system tools. Under Linux, a broad distinction is made between kernel rootkits and userland rootkits, such as those utilising manipulated libraries.
Why does Linux forensics require multiple tools and manual examination?
The enormous variety of Linux distributions, file systems, kernel versions and configuration options means that no single forensic tool can be relied upon without reservation for every conceivable system configuration.

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