In digital forensics, a “disk image” refers to an exact digital copy of a hard drive, SSD, or other storage devices. A disk image preserves every bit, file, and structure of the original data. It is a critical step in ensuring that digital evidence is analyzed without being corrupted.
Why is a Disk Image Important?
Creating a disk image is one of the most reliable ways to securely store the contents of a device and maintain its integrity. When a disk image is created, no changes are made to the original device. Forensic experts perform various analyses on this image to collect evidence. This ensures that the original data remains intact, preserving its legal validity in forensic processes.
Methods of Creating a Disk Image:
- Forensic Duplication: This method creates a complete bit-for-bit copy of a storage device. It ensures that the data is copied accurately and fully. Forensic duplication is typically done using a tool known as a “write blocker,” which prevents any accidental changes to the data.
- Software Tools: Specialized software is used to create disk images. These tools ensure that a complete backup of the data is made and that the original data is preserved. Popular software for disk imaging includes FTK Imager and EnCase.
