MOBILE FORENSICS

File-Based Encryption (FBE) and Full Disk Encryption (FDE)

Device encryption is one of the most important security mechanisms in modern Android devices. It is of central importance to IT forensics, as it largely determines which data can be extracted and analysed. Since Android 7, File-Based Encryption (FBE) has been the predominant method, whilst older devices often use Full Disk Encryption (FDE).

Full Disk Encryption (FDE)
File-Based Encryption (FBE)
Direct Boot
Device-Encrypted (DE) Storage
Credential-Encrypted (CE) Storage
Hardware-based key management
Trusted Execution Environment (TEE)

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

Technical Fundamentals

With Full Disk Encryption (FDE), the entire user storage is encrypted using a single key. The data can only be accessed once the device has been unlocked.

The more modern File-Based Encryption (FBE) encrypts files using different keys. This allows certain system areas to be used even before the system is first unlocked (Direct Boot).

Key terms:

  • •Full Disk Encryption (FDE)
  • •File-Based Encryption (FBE)
  • •Direct Boot
  • •Device-Encrypted (DE) Storage
  • •Credential-Encrypted (CE) Storage
  • •Hardware-based key management
  • •Trusted Execution Environment (TEE)

The data that is available depends, amongst other things, on the Android version, the device model and whether the device is unlocked.

OUR APPROACH

This is how your examination will be carried out

A transparent process – from the initial enquiry to the handover of the report.

1
Before each investigation, the device’s technical configuration is assessed. This assessment takes into account the Android version, encryption methods, security features and possible data extraction methods. The data obtained is analysed using recognised IT forensic tools as well as manually. All stages of the investigation are documented in a reproducible manner.
2
LanCologne produces expert reports for private individuals, as well as for companies and solicitors. Our reports have already been used in court proceedings. In some cases, we have been directly commissioned to produce IT forensic reports. Upon request, we can provide anonymised or redacted sample reports or extracts.

TYPICAL QUESTIONS

When is this analysis required?

  • ✔Does the device use FBE or FDE?
  • ✔What data is available before the device is unlocked?
  • ✔Which sections are only decrypted once the user has logged in?
  • ✔What are the implications for data backup?
  • ✔What are the limitations of forensic analysis?

LIMITATIONS & CONCLUSION

What you should know

Active device encryption can significantly restrict access to data. Without appropriate authentication or supported extraction methods, certain information may not be accessible. These technical limitations are clearly set out in the expert report.

FBE and FDE have a significant impact on the scope of an Android forensic investigation. Correctly identifying the encryption method used is therefore an essential part of any professional analysis.

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Would you like to have an encrypted Android device examined by professionals? LanCologne can assist you with an objective IT forensic analysis and comprehensive expert documentation.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

Click on a question to see the answer.

What is the difference between FBE and FDE?
FDE encrypts the entire storage medium, whilst FBE encrypts individual files using different keys.
What does ‘Direct Boot’ mean?
Certain system data can be accessed even before the device is unlocked for the first time.
Why is FBE important in forensic science?
Because different data ranges are protected and accessible in different ways.
Can the encryption be bypassed?
That depends on the device, the version of Android and the technical methods available.
Can an expert report be drawn up?
Yes. The technical findings can be documented in a transparent manner and assessed by an expert.