IT Forensics – Windows

Forensic analysis of Windows RAM dumps – Securing ephemeral evidence from main memory

A memory dump (RAM dump) contains the contents of the system memory at a specific point in time. It may contain running processes, active network connections, decrypted data, loaded modules, malware components and a wide range of other volatile information.

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The analysis of a RAM dump is always carried out in conjunction with other digital traces, such as file system artefacts, event logs, registry data and log files. Only a comprehensive analysis enables a well-founded technical assessment.

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 carried out exclusively on a forensic copy or a forensic image. The original evidence remains unchanged and is stored in a manner that preserves its evidential integrity.

Our services

Analysis of RAM dumps, reconstruction of running processes and network connections, investigation of potential malware artefacts, correlation with other Windows artefacts, and full documentation of all investigation steps.

Typical areas of application

•Incident Response
•Ransomware analyses
•Malware and rootkit investigations
•Analysis of attack chains
•Corporate Forensics
•Expert reports for the courts

This is how the analysis works

Once the RAM has been securely backed up, the memory dump is analysed using specialised forensic tools and correlated with other artefacts in terms of both timing and technical characteristics.

Why are RAM dumps important?

Much of this information exists solely in volatile RAM and is lost after a reboot. For this reason, memory dumps often form a key part of a comprehensive IT forensic investigation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What information does a RAM dump contain?+
These include, amongst other things, running processes, network connections, storage objects, loaded modules and, depending on the situation, other volatile data.
Can malware be detected in RAM?+
In many cases, memory analyses can provide valuable insights. However, the outcome depends on the individual case.
Is the original data carrier being analysed?+
No. The analysis is based solely on forensic data that has been securely preserved as evidence.
Is a RAM dump on its own sufficient for an expert report?+
No. It is always assessed in conjunction with other digital evidence.

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LanCologne – Windows Forensics in Cologne

LanCologne supports you in the evidence-secure backup and legally admissible analysis of Windows memory images, as well as complex IT forensic investigations.

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