Introduction

Mobile devices dominate modern digital investigations. But iOS and Android have vastly different architectures, security features, and data storage methods. Understanding these differences is critical for forensic investigators.

⚙️ Key Challenges

1. Operating System Architecture

   • iOS: Closed ecosystem, strict sandboxing, limited file system access.

   • Android: Open ecosystem, fragmented OS versions, multiple manufacturers, different file structures.

2. Encryption & Security

   • iOS devices use full-disk encryption, making data extraction challenging without passcodes or backups.

   • Android devices vary: some have file-based encryption, others full-disk. Rooting may be required for full access.

3. Data Storage Differences

   • iOS: Apps store data in SQLite databases, plist files, and keychains. Cloud backups (iCloud) are often essential.

   • Android: Apps store data in SQLite databases, shared preferences, internal/external storage. Google Drive backups can be crucial.

4. Backup & Cloud Forensics

   • iOS: iCloud backups allow remote extraction of app data, messages, and photos.

   • Android: Google account sync may provide access to emails, contacts, and app data.

5. Deleted Data Recovery

   • iOS: Deleted files may be inaccessible due to encryption.

   • Android: Sometimes recoverable from unallocated storage using forensic tools.

6. Legal & Tool Limitations

   • Many tools work differently for iOS vs Android.

   • Legal permissions may differ for cloud extraction depending on jurisdiction.

🔧 Tools Used

• iOS: Cellebrite UFED, GrayKey, Elcomsoft iOS Forensic Toolkit

• Android: Oxygen Forensics, Magnet AXIOM, Cellebrite UFED

🧪 Real-World Example

In a corporate fraud investigation, an iOS device was locked and encrypted. Investigators used iCloud extraction to recover deleted chats and documents. Meanwhile, the suspect’s Android phone required rooting and tool-based extraction to access app databases and call logs.