A framework for password harvesting from volatile memory. (1st January 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Karayianni, Stavroula; Katos, Vasilios; Georgiadis, Christos K.
• Is Part Of: International journal of electronic security and digital forensics. Volume 4:Number 2/3(2012)
• Page Start: 154
• Page End: 163
• Publication Date: 2012-01-01
• Subjects: memory forensics -- order of volatility -- data recovery; Computer crimes -- Periodicals; Computer crimes -- Investigation -- Periodicals; Computer security -- Periodicals; Electronic commerce -- Law and legislation -- Periodicals; Information warfare -- Periodicals; 005.805
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1751-911X

Abstract

In this paper, we challenge the widely accepted approach where a first responder does not capture the RAM of a computer system if found to be powered off at a crime scene. We investigate the presence of confidential data in RAM such as user passwords. Our findings show that even if the computer is switched off but not removed from the mains, the data are preserved. In fact, when a process is terminated but the computer is still operating, the respective data are more likely to be lost. Therefore, capturing the memory could be as critical on a switched off system as on a running one.