The author has chosen Samsung as the DVR brand for which they would determine the recording format. The company is well-known worldwide and well-documented online, which makes learning which formats it supports easier than for many other brands. Per “SmartCam HD Plus” (n.d.), Samsung DVRs use the H.264 compression method and output MJPEG files. While the compression method is widely used, MJPEG is an uncommon and inconsistent standard that has diverged considerably in its implementation since its introduction in the 1990s. As such, it may be challenging to access the data directly, as an appropriate playback tool would need to be found. It would be best to prepare Samsung-compatible devices or programs ahead of time, as, due to the brand’s prominence, there is a considerable likelihood of encountering it in practice.
In addition to traditional computers, digital forensic investigators may also access network logs, which are typically stored on their servers. This data can be used to track network traffic and any changes that took place within it. The information is particularly useful in the case of cybercrime, where attackers also target the network and alter permissions to get unauthorized access to data. With that said, cybercriminals will often alter or delete the logs to conceal their tracks, which can make data collection challenging.
Another application would be to determine the network’s or a user’s IP and track their online activity. The information can be used to determine an unknown individual’s location and possibly identity, or for a known individual, it can show what sites they accessed. In combination with other information, data about a person’s online activity can be invaluable in finding vital evidence, especially with the current prevalence of the Internet.
Reference
SmartCam HD Plus. (n.d.). Web.