How can FTK assist in identifying potential tampering of files?

The process of comparing current file hashes with known good hashes is a crucial method used to identify potential tampering of files. When a file is created or modified, a hash value is calculated from its contents through cryptographic algorithms. This hash serves as a unique identifier for the file in its unaltered state.

When investigators suspect file tampering, they can re-calculate the hash of the current version of the file and compare it to a previously recorded 'known good' hash. If the hashes do not match, it indicates that the file has been altered in some way, which can lead to further investigation into what changes were made and why. This method is especially effective because even a tiny change in the file's content will produce a completely different hash value, making it a reliable way to detect unauthorized modifications.

In addition to hash comparisons, while other methods such as keyword searches, timeline creation, and monitoring file sizes are helpful for forensic investigations, they do not directly indicate whether a file has been tampered with. Instead, they serve different purposes—like identifying relevant files or understanding the sequence of file interactions—making hash comparison a more definitive approach to identifying tampering.