Technical Challenges of Encryption in Mobile Forensics

Mobile device security has advanced rapidly in recent years, creating new challenges for digital forensic investigators. The growing use of sophisticated encryption technologies has particularly transformed how forensic professionals approach evidence extraction and analysis. This seminar paper examines the technical challenges posed by encryption in mobile forensics, focusing on Full Disk Encryption (FDE), File-Based Encryption (FBE), and hardware-backed security modules such as Android Keystore and Apple Secure Enclave. The objectives include evaluating current encryption technologies, analyzing their impact on forensic data extraction, and assessing the effectiveness of standard forensic tools. The methodology is based on a literature review and comparative analysis of encryption standards and forensic techniques. Key findings reveal that modern encryption methods create substantial barriers for forensic practitioners, necessitating innovative approaches that balance lawful access and user privacy. The paper concludes with recommendations for the digital forensics’ community and suggestions for future research.