IT Forensics · Car

Forensic analysis of immobiliser data – Using anti-theft systems for forensic purposes

The electronic immobiliser prevents a vehicle from being started without an authorised key and records both unsuccessful and successful attempts to bypass the immobiliser.

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This log data may be of forensic relevance in proving attempts to tamper with the immobiliser, for example in connection with an attempted or completed vehicle theft.

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 analyse the available log data from the immobiliser in order to document attempts to bypass it and any signs of tampering for forensic purposes.

Typical areas of application

•Evidence of attempts to tamper with the immobiliser
•Investigation into attempted or completed vehicle thefts
•Troubleshooting technical faults with the anti-theft device
•Supplement to theft investigations
•Judicial and non-judicial expert reports
•Cooperation with law enforcement agencies in relation to traffic offences

This is how an immobiliser analysis is carried out

Once the system has been secured, any available log data relating to activation attempts is extracted and checked for anomalies such as repeated failed attempts or atypical activation patterns.

Why is immobiliser analysis relevant in a forensic context?

Repeated failed attempts to unlock a device may be a strong indication of an attempted theft and provide important chronological clues for the investigation.

A technical fault in the immobiliser may also be relevant in a forensic context, for example in disputes concerning the functionality of the anti-theft device.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are attempts to activate the service logged?+
In the case of many modern systems, yes; the exact scope is assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Can an immobiliser be bypassed?+
Technically, this is conceivable with certain systems and with the necessary effort, and it is being investigated as a possible line of inquiry in the forensic analysis.
Are requests for replacement keys also logged?+
Provided the system allows for this, yes – which can be particularly relevant in theft investigations.

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LanCologne – Vehicle IT Forensics, Cologne

Do you require a professional forensic investigation into the „forensic analysis of immobiliser data"? LanCologne can assist you in securing digital evidence in a manner that stands up in court, as well as in the traceable analysis of relevant vehicle artefacts.

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