How does FTK ensure data integrity during an investigation?

FTK ensures data integrity during an investigation primarily by creating checksums for files. A checksum is a unique identifier generated from the contents of a file using a mathematical algorithm. This identifier acts as a fingerprint for the file, allowing examiners to verify that the file remains unchanged throughout the investigative process. When a checksum is calculated at the time of data acquisition and later recalculated during analysis, any difference in the checksums indicates that the file may have been altered, thus compromising its integrity.

This practice is crucial in digital forensics as it helps maintain the chain of custody and provides evidence that the data has not been tampered with since it was originally collected. By ensuring the integrity of the evidence, FTK supports the credibility of the investigation and any findings derived from it.