What is forensic imaging primarily concerned with?

Forensic imaging is primarily focused on creating bit-level copies of data storage. This process involves making an exact replica of a digital storage device, such as a hard drive or a flash drive, including all files and the underlying file system structure, which allows investigators to analyze the data without altering the original evidence. The integrity of the original data is preserved, ensuring that it can be used in legal proceedings if necessary.

This process is critical in forensic investigations as it enables the recovery of deleted files, examination of hidden or encrypted data, and identification of any alterations made post-incident. The focus on bit-level copies allows forensic experts to conduct thorough investigations while adhering to chain-of-custody protocols, which are essential for maintaining the admissibility of the evidence in court.

Other aspects of forensic investigations, such as copying photographic evidence or reconstructing physical scenes, are important but do not fall under the definition or scope of forensic imaging. Similarly, digitally enhancing evidence files is a different process that may occur after imaging but is not the primary function of forensic imaging itself.