When using FTK Imager to create a Raw (dd) image file, what is a key consideration for ensuring integrity?

Using write-blockers during imaging is crucial for ensuring the integrity of the data captured during the process. A write-blocker is a device that allows read access to data on the storage device while preventing any write access. This is vital in forensic data acquisition because it ensures that the original evidence remains unaltered throughout the imaging process.

When imaging a drive, it is essential to maintain a chain of custody and preserve the state of the original data exactly as it was found. By using write-blockers, forensic examiners can guarantee that no accidental writes or modifications occur, which could compromise the integrity of the evidence. This adherence to forensic best practices helps to uphold the validity of the acquired data in legal contexts, ensuring that it can be reliably used in investigations.

Other options, while they may have their own considerations, do not specifically address the fundamental principle of maintaining the original data's integrity during imaging. For example, leaving the original drive connected could risk accidental alterations, while imaging when the system is off does not necessarily guarantee protection against writes if no write-blocker is used. Similarly, deleting original files is counterproductive and undermines the overall forensic process of preservation and analysis.