IT Forensics · Linux

Forensic analysis of Kubernetes cluster artefacts – Forensic investigation of orchestrated container environments

Kubernetes orchestrates containerised applications across multiple nodes, leaving behind a multitude of distributed artefacts, ranging from pod definitions and cluster configurations to centralised or node-specific logs.

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The distributed and often highly dynamic nature of a Kubernetes cluster requires a coordinated backup strategy, as relevant evidence may be scattered across multiple nodes as well as within the cluster’s internal management components.

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 Kubernetes cluster artefacts, including pod definitions, cluster configurations and available logs, and use these to reconstruct incidents within orchestrated environments.

Typical areas of application

•Investigation of compromised pods and workloads
•Reconstruction of changes to cluster configurations
•Analysis of access rights and role-based access control (RBAC)
•Detection of unauthorised deployments within the cluster
•Incident Response on Linux Systems
•Judicial and non-judicial expert reports

How a Kubernetes analysis works

Following consultation with the operator, relevant cluster configurations, pod and workload definitions, as well as available audit and application logs, are backed up. This data is then analysed for any unusual deployments, changes to permissions or access events.

Why is Kubernetes analysis relevant to forensic investigations?

Incorrectly configured access rights within a Kubernetes cluster can have far-reaching consequences, as they can potentially grant access to numerous workloads simultaneously, requiring a thorough forensic investigation.

As Kubernetes environments are highly dynamic and pods are regularly recreated, it is particularly important to back up relevant artefacts in a timely manner so as not to lose ephemeral evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all nodes included in a Kubernetes analysis?+
The scope depends on the specific investigation brief; however, as a rule, all nodes and namespaces relevant to the incident are included.
Can deleted pods still be recovered?+
In some cases, provided that the relevant audit logs, centralised log aggregation or cluster events are still available.
Does the analysis vary depending on the Kubernetes distribution?+
The basic concepts are similar, but the specific locations where logs and configurations are stored may differ.

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

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