Introduction

Mobile forensics has played a critical role in solving crimes, from cyber frauds to violent crimes. By extracting data from phones, investigators can uncover call logs, messages, app data, location history, and deleted files that serve as strong evidence.

📱 Case Study 1: The Boston Marathon Bombing (2013)

• Scenario: Investigators needed to track suspects after the bombing.

• Forensics Role: Phone records and cell tower data helped map the suspects’ movements.

• Outcome: Mobile evidence corroborated CCTV footage, aiding in the capture of the perpetrators.

📱 Case Study 2: Murder Investigation in the UK

• Scenario: A suspect denied involvement in a homicide.

• Forensics Role: iPhone extraction revealed deleted WhatsApp messages planning the crime.

• Outcome: Digital evidence was used in court to convict the suspect.

📱 Case Study 3: Cyber Fraud in the USA

• Scenario: A series of financial frauds targeted online banking users.

• Forensics Role: Android devices were examined for malicious apps, phishing messages, and transaction logs.

• Outcome: Mobile forensics linked the fraud to a specific individual, leading to arrest.

📱 Case Study 4: Terrorism Investigation

• Scenario: Law enforcement suspected a terrorist cell communicating via encrypted messaging apps.

• Forensics Role: Extraction of devices revealed chat histories, shared files, and location history.

• Outcome: The evidence helped prevent planned attacks and prosecute the cell members.

✅ Key Takeaways

1. Deleted Data Matters: Mobile forensics can recover deleted messages, photos, and call logs.

2. App Analysis is Crucial: Apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Signal often hold critical evidence.

3. Legal Authorization: Accessing a mobile device requires court orders to ensure admissibility in court.

4. Location History Helps: GPS and network data can track suspect movements precisely.