MOBILE FORENSICS

Custom ROMs from the perspective of Android forensics

Custom ROMs replace the Android firmware provided by the manufacturer with alternative operating systems. They are relevant to IT forensics as they can alter security mechanisms, storage structures and the behaviour of individual system components.

LineageOS
GrapheneOS
/e/OS
Pixel Experience
crDroid
Non-standard system partitions
Adapted security mechanisms
Data protection and hardening functions
Differences between bootloaders and verified boot
Vendor-neutral Updates

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

Technical Fundamentals

Well-known custom ROMs include, amongst others:

  • •LineageOS
  • •GrapheneOS
  • •/e/OS
  • •Pixel Experience
  • •crDroid

Forensic aspects:

  • •Non-standard system partitions
  • •Adapted security mechanisms
  • •Data protection and hardening functions
  • •Differences between bootloaders and verified boot
  • •Vendor-neutral Updates
  • •Non-standard system services
  • •Impact on extraction processes

The range of functions and architecture vary depending on the ROM and device platform.

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
As part of the investigation, system information, partitions, boot configurations and other artefacts are analysed to determine whether a custom ROM is installed and what technical characteristics it has. To this end, recognised IT forensic tools are combined with manual analysis. All stages of the investigation are documented in a transparent 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?

  • ✔Is a custom ROM installed?
  • ✔Which ROM is being used?
  • ✔What are the implications for data backup and analysis?
  • ✔Which security mechanisms have been changed?
  • ✔What technical conclusions can be drawn?

LIMITATIONS & CONCLUSION

What you should know

The fact that a custom ROM has been installed does not in itself indicate tampering or unlawful use. Any differences compared with the manufacturer’s firmware must always be assessed within the overall technical context.

Custom ROMs can have a significant impact on the framework of an Android forensic investigation. A reliable assessment requires an analysis of the system architecture and all relevant artefacts.

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Enquire now – free initial consultation

Would you like to find out whether a custom ROM is installed on an Android device, or what impact this might have on a forensic investigation? 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 a custom ROM?

Alternative Android firmware that replaces the manufacturer’s original software.

Are custom ROMs generally unsafe?

No. Some people attach particular importance to data protection and system security.

Does a custom ROM affect forensic analysis?

Yes. Storage structures and security mechanisms may differ.

Should GrapheneOS be assessed differently from standard Android from a forensic perspective?

Depending on the problem being addressed, additional security features may influence the analysis.

Could an expert report be drawn up on this matter?

Yes. The technical findings are documented and assessed in a way that is easy to follow.