IT Forensics · Drones

Forensic backup of SD cards from drones – analysing removable storage as a key data source

Many drones use removable SD cards as their primary storage medium for photos, videos and, in some cases, flight data, which makes forensic data recovery relatively straightforward, provided the card is physically accessible.

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It is essential to create a read-only backup of the SD card immediately after it is found, in order to prevent any accidental alteration of the stored data during the subsequent investigation.

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 SD cards from drones in a read-only and forensically traceable manner, and systematically analyse the data they contain using our established tools.

Typical areas of application

Forensic backup of photo, video and flight data
Recovering deleted content from memory cards
Inspection of damaged or faulty memory cards
Proof that stored data has not been altered
Judicial and non-judicial expert reports
Incident response for drone incidents

This is how an SD card backup works

The SD card is forensically imaged using a read-only reader, and hash values are generated immediately afterwards to verify its integrity. Further analysis is carried out exclusively on the working copy that has been created.

Why is backing up an SD card relevant from a forensic perspective?

On many drone models, the SD card contains the most comprehensive and readily accessible forensic data, which is why ensuring it is properly backed up is a particular priority.

Improper handling – such as accidentally writing to the card – can irretrievably destroy data relevant to forensic analysis, which is why the card is always kept in write-protected mode.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every drone store its data on an SD card?+
Many, but not all, models also use, or rely exclusively on, internal storage; this is checked in advance.
What happens if an SD card is damaged?+
In such cases, specialised data recovery techniques are used to retrieve as much data as possible from the card.
Can encrypted SD cards also be backed up?+
The encrypted raw data set can be backed up; however, decryption requires the relevant access details.

LanCologne – IT Forensics Drones Cologne

Do you require a professional forensic investigation into „the forensic preservation of SD cards from drones"? LanCologne can assist you with the legally admissible preservation of digital evidence and the transparent analysis of relevant drone artefacts.

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