IT Forensics · Drones

Forensic analysis of companion app data on smartphones – using the associated mobile app as a data source

Most modern drones are controlled via an accompanying smartphone or tablet app, which often stores its own flight and usage data – in some cases even more comprehensive than that stored by the drone itself.

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A forensic analysis of this companion app can therefore represent a particularly rich source of data that is easily accessible using our established mobile forensics tools.

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 back up and analyse companion app data on smartphones and tablets using our tried-and-tested mobile forensics tools, and systematically evaluate the flight and usage data contained therein.

Typical areas of application

•Analysis of supplementary flight and usage data from the Companion app
•Reconstruction of flight history across multiple flights
•Proof of use of a specific account
•Supplementing missing or incomplete data relating to the drone itself
•Judicial and non-judicial expert reports
•Incident response for drone incidents

This is how a companion app analysis is carried out

Once the mobile device has been forensically secured, the app’s own data sets are extracted and analysed using our established mobile forensics tools. Any flight, account and usage data contained therein is systematically documented.

Why is the Companion App analysis relevant from a forensic perspective?

The companion app often stores a history that extends beyond individual flights, which may already have been overwritten or may no longer be available on the drone itself.

Furthermore, the use of the app often makes it possible to link a specific user account – and thus a specific individual – to the use of the drone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the app store more data than the drone itself?+
Often, yes – particularly when it comes to long-term flight history and account details.
Are deleted app data also restored?+
Provided it is technically feasible, yes, using the same established methods as for other mobile forensics.
Is analysis possible on every smartphone operating system?+
In principle, yes, but the exact extent depends on the operating system in question and its security mechanisms.

LanCologne – IT Forensics Drones Cologne

Do you require a professional forensic investigation into „the forensic analysis of companion app data on smartphones"? LanCologne can assist you with the legally admissible preservation of digital evidence and the transparent analysis of relevant drone artefacts.

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