IT Forensics · Car

Forensic analysis of vehicle electrical system voltage logs – Forensic documentation of vehicle electrical system data

Some control units record voltage fluctuations and interruptions in the vehicle’s electrical system, which may occur, for example, when the battery is changed, the system is tampered with or there is a technical fault.

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This data may be relevant in determining whether and when a power supply was interrupted, which may be particularly important in cases where tampering with other control units is suspected.

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 available on-board electrical system voltage logs and document any interruptions and anomalies during the relevant investigation period in a manner that is forensically verifiable.

Typical areas of application

•Detection of power interruptions in the vehicle electrical system
•Extending mileage verification to include technical plausibility checks
•Troubleshooting technical faults in the electrical system
•Investigation into attempts to tamper with control units
•Judicial and non-judicial expert reports
•Collaboration with experts

This is how an on-board electrical system voltage analysis is carried out

Once the relevant control units have been backed up, the available voltage logs are extracted and checked for interruptions and their timing within the investigation period.

Why is the analysis of the vehicle electrical system voltage relevant in a forensic context?

A recorded power interruption may constitute technical evidence of deliberate tampering with a control unit, for example as part of an act of manipulation.

This analysis is often used to supplement other tampering checks, such as odometer verification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are power cuts logged for each control unit?+
Not necessarily; this varies depending on the manufacturer and control unit and is assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Does every power cut indicate tampering?+
No, even legitimate actions such as changing a battery can cause an interruption; this is assessed within the overall context.
How long are such events stored for?+
This varies depending on the system and is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

LanCologne – Vehicle IT Forensics, Cologne

Do you require a professional forensic investigation into the „forensic analysis of vehicle electrical system voltage logs"? 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.

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