iPad Forensics
What is iPad Forensics?
iPad forensics involves extracting and analyzing data from an Apple iPad to uncover information relevant to an investigation — criminal, civil, corporate, or internal security. This data could be deleted messages, app usage, photos, browser history, location data, and more.
Techniques Used Can Include:
- Logical acquisition: Pulling data using standard access (iTunes backup, iCloud, etc.).
- Physical acquisition: Bit-by-bit image of the entire storage, including deleted files. Often requires jailbreaking.
- File system acquisition: Full access to the device’s file system without necessarily getting a physical image.
Types of Data Extracted Can Include:
- User data: Messages (iMessage, SMS), emails, contacts, photos, videos, calendar events
- App data: WhatsApp, Snapchat, Facebook, Instagram, etc.
- Browser data: Safari history, bookmarks, cookies
- System data: Logs, crash reports, device settings, installed apps
- Location data: GPS coordinates, Wi-Fi connections, geotagged photos