Digital Forensic Certification Practice Exam

What is the correct sequence of steps in forensic readiness planning starting from identifying the evidence?

1. 4 → 1 → 7 → 3 → 6 → 8 → 2 → 5

2. 1 → 4 → 3 → 6 → 2 → 5 → 7 → 8

3. 2 → 1 → 4 → 3 → 7 → 8 → 6 → 5

4. 5 → 4 → 2 → 1 → 3 → 7 → 8 → 6

The correct answer is: 4 → 1 → 7 → 3 → 6 → 8 → 2 → 5

The correct sequence of steps in forensic readiness planning emphasizes the importance of systematically identifying, preserving, and analyzing evidence to ensure a thorough investigation can be conducted. Beginning with the identification of evidence is essential because it lays the groundwork for all subsequent actions within the forensic process. Following that step, the next step typically involves assessing the current environment and existing policies, which enables an organization to understand what data may be relevant and where it is likely to be found. This progression to analyzing and prioritizing how to deal with the evidence comes next, allowing for effective strategies to be developed for its collection and preservation. Subsequent actions focus on establishing protocols for evidence handling, preserving the integrity of the evidence, and ensuring that proper documentation and chain of custody practices are in place. Concluding with the creation of a reporting framework allows for the findings to be communicated effectively within legal or organizational contexts. This sequence is aimed at minimizing potential issues during forensic investigations, ensuring that evidence is not compromised and that investigations are prepared in advance to act swiftly and efficiently when necessary.