Application Forensics #

• Thesis ID: 24-05
• Research Proposal: Forensics of Desktop and Mobile Phone Applications

Abstract #

With the widespread adoption of desktop and mobile applications such as BankID, Discord, Steam, and Stremio, the need for comprehensive digital forensics becomes increasingly critical. These applications handle sensitive data, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals. This research aims to investigate forensic methodologies for extracting, analyzing, and preserving evidence from popular desktop and mobile applications, focusing on identifying potential security vulnerabilities and enhancing forensic capabilities.

1. Introduction #

1.1 Background #

The rise of desktop and mobile applications has transformed various aspects of modern life, including communication, entertainment, finance, and productivity. However, this convenience comes with significant cybersecurity risks, as these applications often store sensitive user information and are prime targets for cyber-attacks. Forensic analysis of these applications can provide valuable insights into security vulnerabilities, user behavior, and potential malicious activities.

1.2 Problem Statement #

While significant advancements have been made in digital forensics, the rapidly evolving nature of desktop and mobile applications presents unique challenges. Current forensic tools and techniques may not fully address the complexities involved in analyzing modern applications. This research seeks to bridge this gap by developing and validating forensic methodologies tailored to popular applications such as BankID, Discord, Steam, and Stremio.

1.3 Objectives #

1. To evaluate existing forensic tools and techniques for analyzing desktop and mobile applications.
2. To develop new methodologies for extracting, analyzing, and preserving digital evidence from these applications.
3. To identify and document potential security vulnerabilities within these applications.
4. To provide recommendations for enhancing the forensic analysis of desktop and mobile applications.

2. Literature Review #

2.1 Digital Forensics #

Overview of digital forensics, including its importance, key principles, and current methodologies. Examination of challenges in forensic analysis of modern applications.

2.2 Forensic Analysis of Desktop Applications #

Review of existing forensic tools and techniques for desktop applications, focusing on applications such as Discord, Steam, and Stremio. Analysis of case studies and documented incidents involving these applications.

2.3 Forensic Analysis of Mobile Applications #

Review of forensic tools and techniques for mobile applications, with a particular focus on BankID and other popular mobile apps. Analysis of case studies and documented incidents involving these applications.

2.4 Security Vulnerabilities in Applications #

Discussion of common security vulnerabilities in desktop and mobile applications, including data leakage, authentication weaknesses, and malware exploitation.

3. Research Methodology #

3.1 Phase 1: Evaluation of Existing Tools and Techniques #

1. Tool Assessment: Evaluate existing forensic tools for their effectiveness in analyzing desktop and mobile applications. Tools to be evaluated include EnCase, Autopsy, Cellebrite, and others.
2. Methodology Review: Review existing forensic methodologies to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

3.2 Phase 2: Development of Forensic Methodologies #

1. Data Extraction: Develop methodologies for extracting digital evidence from desktop applications (e.g., Discord, Steam, Stremio) and mobile applications (e.g., BankID).
2. Data Analysis: Develop techniques for analyzing extracted data to identify user behavior, security vulnerabilities, and potential malicious activities.
3. Data Preservation: Establish protocols for preserving digital evidence to ensure its integrity and admissibility in legal proceedings.

3.3 Phase 3: Testing and Validation #

1. Simulated Environments: Create simulated environments for desktop and mobile applications to test the developed forensic methodologies.
2. Real-World Scenarios: Apply the methodologies to real-world scenarios to validate their effectiveness and reliability.

3.4 Phase 4: Identification of Security Vulnerabilities #

1. Vulnerability Analysis: Analyze the applications for potential security vulnerabilities, focusing on data leakage, authentication weaknesses, and malware exploitation.
2. Documentation: Document identified vulnerabilities and their potential impact on users and overall application security.

3.5 Phase 5: Recommendations and Best Practices #

1. Forensic Recommendations: Provide recommendations for enhancing forensic analysis of desktop and mobile applications.
2. Security Recommendations: Develop best practices for developers to mitigate identified security vulnerabilities.

4. Expected Outcomes #

1. Enhanced Forensic Methodologies: Development of improved methodologies for extracting, analyzing, and preserving digital evidence from desktop and mobile applications.
2. Identification of Vulnerabilities: Comprehensive documentation of security vulnerabilities in popular applications.
3. Practical Recommendations: Recommendations for both forensic analysts and application developers to enhance forensic capabilities and improve application security.
4. Academic Contributions: Publication of research findings in academic journals and conferences, contributing to the body of knowledge in digital forensics and cybersecurity.

5. Timeline #

A tentative timeline.

6. Conclusion #

This research aims to enhance the field of digital forensics by developing and validating methodologies for analyzing popular desktop and mobile applications. By identifying security vulnerabilities and providing practical recommendations, this study will contribute to improving both forensic capabilities and application security, ultimately strengthening the overall cybersecurity landscape.

7. References #

1. Literature on digital forensics and existing forensic methodologies.
2. Documentation on forensic tools such as EnCase, Autopsy, and Cellebrite.
3. Research papers and articles on security vulnerabilities in desktop and mobile applications.