MOBILE FORENSICS

Forensic analysis of Google Photos on Android

Google Photos is used to manage, back up and synchronise photos and videos. During an Android forensic investigation, local files and – depending on the data set – synchronised files can provide important clues about how a device has been used.

Local image and video files
EXIF metadata (e.g. time taken and GPS, where available)
Thumbnails
Cache files
SQLite databases
Synchronisation information
Shared albums
Recycle bin information
Timestamps and metadata

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

Technical Fundamentals

Forensically relevant artefacts may include, amongst other things:

  • Local image and video files
  • EXIF metadata (e.g. time taken and GPS, where available)
  • Thumbnails
  • Cache files
  • SQLite databases
  • Synchronisation information
  • Shared albums
  • Recycle bin information
  • Timestamps and metadata

The data available depends on the app settings, the version of Android and whether the app is synchronised with your Google account.

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, image files, metadata, databases and other artefacts are analysed using recognised IT forensic tools and manual analysis. All stages of the investigation are documented in a reproducible manner and evaluated solely on the basis of objective technical findings.
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 photos and videos are stored locally?
  • What EXIF metadata is available?
  • What types of synchronisation artefacts are there?
  • Is it technically possible to recover deleted media?
  • How significant are the existing artefacts?

LIMITATIONS & CONCLUSION

What you should know

Deleted files, disabled synchronisation, missing EXIF data or overwritten files may limit the amount of information available. Any conclusions are drawn solely on the basis of the technical artefacts that are actually present.

Analysis of Google Photos can provide important insights into media files, capture times and location data. A reliable assessment requires a comprehensive evaluation of all available data.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

What our customers say

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“The highest standards of professionalism, prompt service and excellent communication. They made the seemingly impossible a reality. This is what genuine customer service is all about – unrivalled in Germany!”

idalein

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★★★★★

“Very helpful advice, excellent responsiveness and communication. My problem was completely resolved and the lost data was recovered. I’m very satisfied and, of course, relieved!”

Layla Pankratz

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“My problem was sorted out professionally and quickly; everyone I spoke to was always friendly, and I can still get in touch if I have any questions – I’m very grateful for that!”

a woman from Cologne

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Enquire now – free initial consultation

Would you like to have Google Photos data on an Android device 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.

Is EXIF data always present?

No. They may be missing or have been removed during editing.

Can deleted photos be recovered?

That depends on the data set and the artefacts available.

Are videos also being examined?

Yes. Videos and their metadata can form part of the analysis.

Is cloud data automatically available?

No. The relevant factors are the available data and the relevant authorisation.

Could an expert report be drawn up on this matter?

Yes. The results are documented in a transparent manner and assessed from a technical perspective.