Internet of things forensics – Challenges and a case study

Abstract

During this era of the Internet of Things, millions of devices such as automobiles, smoke detectors, watches, glasses and webcams are being connected to the Internet. The number of devices with the ability of monitor and collect data is continuously increasing. The Internet of Things enhances human comfort and convenience, but it raises serious questions related to security and privacy. It also creates significant challenges for digital investigators when they encounter Internet of Things devices in criminal scenes. In fact, current research focuses on security and privacy in Internet of Things environments as opposed to forensic acquisition and analysis techniques for Internet of Things devices. This chapter focuses on the major challenges with regard to Internet of Things forensics. A forensic approach for Internet of Things devices is presented using a smartwatch as a case study. Forensic artifacts retrieved from the smartwatch are analyzed and the evidence found is discussed with respect to the challenges facing Internet of Things forensics.