IT Forensics · Car

Proving remote engine shutdown through forensic analysis – Documenting remote engine shutdown through forensic analysis

Some vehicles, particularly those financed or part of a fleet, are fitted with a function for remotely switching off or immobilising the engine; the activation of this function is usually logged.

Enquire without obligation

This data may be relevant in determining whether and when such a function was triggered, and from which account or system this occurred.

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 relating to the remote shutdown of the engine and document the time of the shutdown and the account that triggered it in a manner that is forensically verifiable.

Typical areas of application

•Evidence of a remote-controlled engine shutdown
•Resolution of disputes relating to financing vehicles
•Investigation into misuse of the shut-off function
•Supplement to vehicle cloud account analyses
•Judicial and non-judicial expert reports
•Collaboration with finance companies

This is how a remote shutdown analysis works

Subject to the appropriate authorisation, available logs relating to remote disconnection are backed up, organised chronologically and cross-referenced with further account and vehicle data.

Why is the analysis of remote disconnection relevant from a forensic perspective?

Evidence of a remote shutdown can be crucial in determining whether a motor shutdown was due to a technical fault or was deliberately triggered.

Particularly in the case of financing disputes, the timing of a shutdown can be of considerable legal significance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every vehicle have a remote cut-off function?+
No, this is an optional feature, usually restricted to finance or fleet vehicles.
How is the relevant log data accessed?+
Only with the account holder’s authorisation or on the basis of a valid legal basis.
Can the vehicle be switched off remotely whilst driving?+
For security reasons, this is technically impossible or severely restricted on most systems; this is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

LanCologne – Vehicle IT Forensics, Cologne

Do you require a professional forensic investigation into „proving the remote deactivation of the engine through forensic evidence"? LanCologne can assist you in securing digital evidence in a manner that stands up in court, as well as in the transparent analysis of relevant vehicle artefacts.

Get in touch now