IT Forensics · Linux

Forensic backup of AWS EC2 Linux instances – Backing up and analysing cloud instances in a forensically traceable manner

Linux instances in the Amazon Web Services cloud, particularly those running on the EC2 service, require a backup strategy tailored to the cloud infrastructure for the purposes of a forensic investigation, as physical access to the underlying hardware is not possible.

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Instead, cloud-native mechanisms such as snapshot functions for data volumes and comprehensive platform-provided logging services are available, which are incorporated into the forensic backup process.

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 AWS EC2 Linux instances using cloud-native snapshot mechanisms in a manner that is forensically traceable, and we also analyse any available platform logs to obtain a complete picture of the incident.

Typical areas of application

•Forensic backup of EC2 instances without interrupting operations
•Reconstruction of instance activities based on platform logs
•Investigation of compromised cloud environments
•Evidence of unauthorised access to cloud resources
•Incident Response on Linux Systems
•Judicial and non-judicial expert reports

How an AWS EC2 backup works

Following consultation with the operator, a forensically traceable snapshot of the relevant data storage media is first created. In addition, any available platform logs relating to instance activities and access attempts are backed up and correlated with the findings from the data storage media.

Why is the AWS EC2 backup relevant from a forensic perspective?

As physical access to the cloud infrastructure is not possible, a forensically sound backup requires in-depth knowledge of cloud-specific mechanisms and logging services.

Platform-side logs may provide additional information that lies outside the actual instance, such as details of administrative access to the cloud management layer, which may be relevant for a complete reconstruction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to carry out a forensic backup without interrupting operations?+
In many cases, yes – by creating a consistent snapshot whilst the instance is still running.
Are accesses to the cloud management layer also included?+
Yes, where relevant and where available, the relevant platform logs relating to administrative access are analysed.
Is the procedure different with other cloud providers?+
The basic methodology is transferable; however, specific mechanisms and protocol services vary depending on the provider.

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LanCologne – Linux Forensics Cologne

Do you require a professional forensic investigation into „forensic backup of AWS EC2 Linux instances"? LanCologne can assist you with the legally admissible backup of digital evidence and the traceable analysis of relevant Linux artefacts.

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