IT Forensics · Car

Forensic investigation of GPS spoofing in vehicle navigation systems – Forensically detecting falsified satellite signals

GPS spoofing involves transmitting fake satellite signals to trick a navigation system into displaying a false location, which, in rare cases, may be of forensic relevance – for example, to conceal a vehicle’s actual whereabouts.

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Technical discrepancies between several independent location sources for a vehicle may provide evidence of such a tampering scenario.

Why LanCologne?

Since its foundation, LanCologne has specialised in professional IT forensics. Our staff have decades of experience in the field of information technology and assist companies, solicitors, private individuals and, on a regular basis, the courts in the technical investigation of complex digital matters.

The examination is, as a matter of principle, carried out exclusively on a forensic copy, a forensic image or a data source captured in a technically equivalent manner that preserves the integrity of the evidence. The original evidence remains unchanged and is stored in a manner that preserves its integrity.

Our services

We cross-check available location data from several independent vehicle systems and check for technical discrepancies that could indicate GPS spoofing.

Typical areas of application

•Investigation into suspected tampering with location data
•Alignment of multiple independent location sources for a vehicle
•Assistance with investigations into false locations
•Supplementing location history and movement analyses
•Judicial and non-judicial expert reports
•Cooperation with law enforcement agencies

How a GPS spoofing analysis is carried out

Once the data has been backed up, the available location data from the navigation system, the telematics unit and, where applicable, any connected mobile devices is compared to identify any discrepancies.

Why is GPS spoofing analysis relevant in a forensic context?

Cross-referencing data from several independent location sources increases the likelihood of detecting targeted manipulation of individual systems.

GPS spoofing in civilian vehicle systems is technically challenging and relatively rare, which is why any such suspicion is investigated with particular care.

Frequently Asked Questions

How common is GPS spoofing actually in civilian vehicles?+
We are unable to provide our own reliable assessment of frequency and prevalence; we examine only the technical evidence in each specific case.
Can GPS spoofing be proven beyond doubt?+
Not in every case; technical inconsistencies provide clues, but absolute certainty cannot always be achieved.
Which systems are used for site matching?+
Subject to availability: navigation system, telematics unit, toll data and, where applicable, connected mobile devices.

LanCologne – Vehicle IT Forensics, Cologne

Do you require a professional forensic investigation into „forensic analysis of GPS spoofing in vehicle navigation systems"? LanCologne can assist you in securing digital evidence to a standard that will stand up in court, as well as in the transparent analysis of relevant vehicle artefacts.

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