Forework: A Real-Time, Distributed Digital Forensic Analysis Framework

The increasing volume of data in digital forensic investigations has outpaced the capabilities of existing forensic systems. Traditional systems such as The Sleuth Kit Hadoop, OCFA, and Hansken, though capable of handling large-scale data, fail to offer real-time analysis, which is crucial for prioritizing critical evidence in investigations. This paper addresses this gap by proposing a modern, real-time analysis approach and introducing Forework, a proof-of-concept implementation. Forework aims to deliver real-time, prioritized analysis of forensic artifacts, providing an interactive and scalable solution. It leverages parallel and distributed computing to manage large datasets efficiently, ensuring investigators can quickly focus on the most relevant evidence. This system represents a significant step forward in digital forensics, aligning with contemporary needs for swift and effective data analysis.