A Conceptual Digital Forensic Investigation Model Applicable to the Drone Forensics Field

Abstract

Although there is a considerable amount of studies in drone forensics that describe numerous practical and technical perspectives, there is a lack of a comprehensive investigation framework. This study used design science research methodology to design a conceptual model for the comprehensive investigation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) under forensic conditions. This model can identify, capture, preserve, analyze, and document UAV incidents. The proposed model consists of four stages: preparation, data collection, analysis, and documentation. In the preparation stage, data are collected and analyzed about UAV-related resources, including the origin and model of the aircraft, any software or hardware installed onboard, and the legal framework and regulations in place. The data collection stage involves the completion of the collection process, where participants gather parts of the UAV and the data needed, such as the flight controller, flight log, and memory cards. The analysis stage involves analyzing the collected evidence. Lastly, the documentation stage involves documenting relevant evidence, analysis results, and any conclusions derived. This model provides a comprehensive process to forensically investigate UAV incidents and provides an efficient and effective approach to the analysis of UAV evidence, ensuring that evidence was collected and analyzed according to accepted forensic techniques. The proposed model can be applied to any UAV type and legal framework.