IT Forensics · OSINT
Analysing QR codes and short links using OSINT – forensically tracing shortened and encoded links
QR codes and shortened links often conceal their actual destination and are also used for phishing or fraud attempts.
In the context of existing security or fraud incidents, we carry out a structured analysis to determine where a relevant QR code or short link actually leads.
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 resolve a relevant QR code or short link using secure technical methods and document the actual destination, as well as any other identifiable links, in a manner that is forensically verifiable.
Typical areas of application
How a QR code and short link analysis works
The relevant QR code or short link is resolved in a secure, isolated environment; the actual destination is cross-checked against further publicly available technical information and documented.
Why is the analysis of QR codes and short links relevant from a forensic perspective?
Identifying the actual target can provide important clues for classifying a phishing or fraud attempt.
Forensic documentation also helps to raise staff awareness of how to deal with similar attempted attacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
LanCologne – IT Forensics OSINT Cologne
Do you require a professional OSINT investigation into „Analysing QR codes and short links using OSINT"? LanCologne can assist you with the transparent, documented analysis of publicly available digital sources to complement your IT forensic, legal or internal corporate enquiries.
Related to this topic
- Conducting technical checks on politically exposed persons (PEPs) using OSINT – carrying out forensic investigations into publicly available information on PEPs
- Verifying supplier compliance using OSINT – conducting forensic research into publicly available supplier information
- Supporting the prevention of money laundering through OSINT research – utilising publicly available information for prevention processes
- Investigating breaches of export control legislation using OSINT – conducting forensic investigations into publicly available evidence of breaches