Forensic Report: Findings (en)
6. Examination Results
This section is the core of an investigation or audit. Here, all the evidence and data collected during the examination process will be presented, analyzed, and interpreted in depth. The main objective of this section is to answer key questions related to the case under investigation and provide an objective conclusion.
Findings of Fact
This section presents a systematic account of all the evidence discovered during the examination process. The data presented must be relevant and specific to support the conclusions that will be drawn later. Some common examples of findings of fact in an investigation include:
- Suspicious or important files: These could be files with unusual extensions, files containing sensitive information, or files that have been intentionally deleted.
- Unusual user activities: For example, access to the system at unusual times, undocumented changes in access permissions, or repeated failed login attempts.
- Evidence of data manipulation: This could involve alterations to log files, database modifications, or the deletion of important data.
- Digital traces linking perpetrators to the crime: For instance, the IP address used to commit the crime, email accounts used to communicate with other perpetrators, or hardware used to carry out the attack.
Data visualization is a very useful tool for clarifying complex findings of fact. Graphs, diagrams, or tables can be used to present data visually, making it easier for readers to understand.
Analysis of Findings
After all findings of fact are presented, the next step is to conduct an analysis. The analysis of findings involves interpreting the collected data and attempting to connect those findings to the case under investigation. Some questions that need to be answered during the analysis phase include:
- What is the significance of these findings of fact?
- Do these findings support or contradict the initial hypothesis?
- Is there a relationship between one finding and another?
- What conclusions can be drawn from these findings?
The relationship between findings and the case must be clearly explained. Researchers should demonstrate how each finding of fact supports or refutes the initial hypothesis and how these findings collectively provide a comprehensive picture of the case under investigation.
Example of Findings Analysis:
"The discovery of unusual .exe files in the system directory, along with unusual login activity from an unknown IP address, suggests an attempt to install malware on the system. Additionally, the digital trace linking this IP address to a server in another country reinforces the suspicion of a cyber attack from abroad."
Conclusion:
The "Examination Results" section is a critical part of an investigation or audit report. By systematically presenting findings of fact and analyzing them in depth, researchers can provide objective and accountable conclusions.
Additional Tips:
- Be honest and objective: All findings should be presented honestly and objectively, without bias or personal interest.
- Clarification: If there are findings that are unclear or require further explanation, they should be detailed.
- Use accessible language: The language used should be easy to understand for readers, even if they do not have a technical background.
- Clear structure: This section should be organized with a clear and logical structure, making it easy for readers to follow.
By following the guidelines above, you can prepare a high-quality "Examination Results" section that significantly contributes to the conclusions of an investigation or audit.