MOBILE FORENSICS

Forensic analysis of installed apps (Android)

Installed applications are among the most important sources of data in an Android forensic investigation. Messaging, browser, email, banking and social media apps store a wide range of technical information which – depending on the data available – can provide insights into usage, communication and chronological sequences.

SQLite databases
XML files (Shared Preferences)
Cache files
Log files
Configuration files
Media and document files
App permissions
Timestamps and metadata

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

Technical Fundamentals

Android generally isolates applications using a sandbox approach. Each app has its own memory space and defined permissions.

Forensically relevant artefacts may include, amongst other things:

  • SQLite databases
  • XML files (Shared Preferences)
  • Cache files
  • Log files
  • Configuration files
  • Media and document files
  • App permissions
  • Timestamps and metadata

Storage locations and data structures vary depending on the app, Android version and manufacturer.

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
Following a suitable forensic data backup, the relevant app data is analysed using recognised IT forensic tools and manual analysis. Databases, XML files, metadata and time-stamps are assessed within the overall technical context. 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?

  • Which apps are installed?
  • What data does a particular application store?
  • What permissions have been granted?
  • Can communication or usage data be traced?
  • Which artefacts are relevant to the research question?

LIMITATIONS & CONCLUSION

What you should know

Not every application stores the same information. Device encryption, authorisation schemes, app-specific settings or data deletion processes can affect the range of artefacts available. Missing data does not allow for general conclusions to be drawn about a lack of usage.

Analysing installed Android apps often provides key insights into a device’s usage patterns. The significance of the results stems from the combined evaluation of all available technical artefacts.

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Enquire now – free initial consultation

Would you like to have the data from installed Android apps professionally examined? LanCologne can assist you with an objective IT forensic analysis and comprehensive expert documentation.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

Click on a question to see the answer.

Are all Android apps assessed in the same way?
No. Storage locations and data structures vary depending on the application.
What role do SQLite databases play?
Many Android apps store their content and metadata in SQLite databases.
What are Shared Preferences?
XML files containing an app’s configuration and settings information.
Can deleted app data be recovered?
That depends on the data backup and the artefacts available.
Can an expert report be drawn up?
Yes. The results can be documented in a transparent manner and assessed by experts.