Beyond the data types evaluated in this study, local backups could potentially acquire a wide range of data from smartphones. Some additional types of data that could be obtained through local backups include:
App Data: Besides the apps evaluated in the study, other applications on the device may store sensitive data that could be included in the backup. This could include messaging apps, social media apps, productivity tools, and more.
Device Settings: Backup mechanisms often include device settings, system configurations, and preferences. These settings can provide valuable information about the user's behavior, usage patterns, and device interactions.
Media Files: Photos, videos, audio recordings, and other media stored on the device could be part of the backup. These files may contain metadata, timestamps, and geolocation information that could be relevant for forensic analysis.
Browser History and Bookmarks: Information about the user's browsing history, saved passwords, and bookmarked sites from the device's browser could be included in the backup. This data could reveal user activities, interests, and online behavior.
When assessing the reliability and integrity of these additional data types acquired through local backups, it is essential to:
Verify the completeness of the backup by comparing it to the original data on the device.
Check for any discrepancies, alterations, or missing data during the backup process.
Validate the accuracy and consistency of the acquired data through thorough analysis and comparison with reference data.
Consider the potential impact of different OS versions, environmental conditions, and backup methods on the acquired data.