Automatically generating digital forensic reference data triggered by mobile application updates

Claij-Swart AA, Oudsen E, Timbermont B, Hargreaves C, Voigt L (2025)


Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2025

Journal

Book Volume: 54

Article Number: 301985

DOI: 10.1016/j.fsidi.2025.301985

Abstract

Mobile applications are subject to frequent updates, which poses a challenge for validating digital forensic tools. This paper presents an approach to automate the generation of reference data on an ongoing basis, and how this can be integrated into the overall validation process of a digital forensic analysis platform. Specifically, it describes the architecture of the mobile data synthesis framework Puma, shares its capabilities via an open-source project, and shows how it can be used in a tool testing workflow triggered by application updates. The value of this approach is demonstrated with three example use cases, documenting the use of the approach over six months and reporting insights and experiences gained from this integration. Finally, this work highlights additional contributions the proposed approach and tooling could make to the digital forensics community.

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How to cite

APA:

Claij-Swart, A.A., Oudsen, E., Timbermont, B., Hargreaves, C., & Voigt, L. (2025). Automatically generating digital forensic reference data triggered by mobile application updates. Forensic Science International: Digital Investigation, 54. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fsidi.2025.301985

MLA:

Claij-Swart, Angelina A., et al. "Automatically generating digital forensic reference data triggered by mobile application updates." Forensic Science International: Digital Investigation 54 (2025).

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