IT Forensics · OSINT

Forensic analysis of image metadata – using EXIF and other image metadata for forensic purposes

Digital image files often contain embedded metadata such as the time the photo was taken, the camera model or GPS coordinates, unless these have been removed by the relevant platform or the user.

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We analyse publicly available image files within the context of existing cases to extract any available metadata and document the results in a manner that is forensically verifiable.

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.

Our OSINT investigations are always carried out as a complementary component to existing IT forensic, legal or internal corporate enquiries. Every step of the investigation and every piece of digital evidence found is documented and, where technically possible, archived to ensure traceability even if the original online content is subsequently altered or deleted.

Our services

We extract and document the available metadata from publicly accessible image files and place this within the context of the relevant study.

Typical areas of application

•Verification of the time and location at which an image was taken
•Supplementing geolocation analyses
•Check for subsequent editing
•Support with the verification of photographic evidence
•Judicial and non-judicial expert reports
•Collaboration with solicitors

This is how an image metadata analysis works

The relevant image file is checked for any embedded metadata. Any information found is extracted, documented and cross-checked against other known facts relating to the case to ensure its plausibility.

Why is image metadata analysis relevant in a forensic context?

Embedded metadata can provide important, independent clues as to the time and place a photograph was taken, provided it has not been removed.

Many social media platforms automatically remove metadata during upload, a factor that is taken into account fairly when assessing data availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all the images contain usable metadata?+
No, many platforms automatically remove metadata during upload; we check this for each image individually and communicate the result transparently.
Can metadata be manipulated?+
Yes, technically this is possible, which is why we always cross-check metadata details using additional independent analysis methods.
What information can be included in metadata?+
These include, amongst other things, the time the photo was taken, the camera model, the exposure settings and, where available, the GPS coordinates.

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LanCologne – IT Forensics OSINT Cologne

Do you require a professional OSINT investigation into „forensic analysis of image metadata"? LanCologne can assist you with the transparent, documented analysis of publicly available digital sources to support your IT forensic, legal or internal corporate enquiries.

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