MOBILE FORENSICS

Forensic analysis of Telegram on Android

Telegram is one of the world’s most widely used messaging services and differs significantly from many other applications in technical terms. In particular, the combination of cloud-based standard chats and optional secret chats has an impact on the scope of an IT forensic investigation.

SQLite databases
Local cache files
Media and Downloads
User and profile information
Timestamps and metadata
Cloud chats
Secret Chats
Journal and WAL files

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

Technical Fundamentals

Telegram stores data both locally on the device and – depending on the type of conversation – on the service’s Servern.

Forensically relevant artefacts include, amongst others:

  • •SQLite databases
  • •Local cache files
  • •Media and Downloads
  • •User and profile information
  • •Timestamps and metadata
  • •Cloud chats
  • •Secret Chats
  • •Journal and WAL files

The type and scope of the available data depend on the version of Telegram being used, the settings and the available data.

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, Telegram databases, media files, configuration files and other artefacts are analysed using recognised IT forensic tools as well as through manual analysis. Timestamps and metadata are correlated with other technical findings. 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 chat apps and media platforms are available locally?
  • ✔What are the differences between cloud chats and secret chats?
  • ✔Which databases can be analysed?
  • ✔Is it technically possible to recover deleted content?
  • ✔How significant are the existing artefacts?

LIMITATIONS & CONCLUSION

What you should know

Cloud-based features, end-to-end-encrypted secret chats, deleted data or missing backups may limit the scope of an analysis. Conclusions are drawn solely on the basis of the technical artefacts that are actually available.

The forensic analysis of Telegram requires a nuanced approach to local and cloud-based data sources. Only a comprehensive analysis of all available artefacts enables a well-founded technical assessment.

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What our customers say

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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!”

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Enquire now – free initial consultation

Would you like to have Telegram data on an Android device professionally examined? 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 cloud chats and secret chats?
Cloud chats are synchronised on the server, whilst Secret Chats are end-to-end encrypted and device-specific.
Which databases are relevant?
Depending on the version, various SQLite databases and associated files may be present.
Are media outlets also being investigated?
Yes. Images, videos, documents and other attachments can form part of an analysis.
Can deleted Telegram messages be recovered?
That depends on the data set and the artefacts available.
Could an expert report be drawn up on this matter?
Yes. The test results are documented in a clear and transparent manner and assessed from a technical perspective.