Edinburgh Napier University

  Traditional digital forensics processes do not scale well with the huge quantities of data present in a modern investigation, resulting in large investigative backlogs for many law enforcement agencies. Data reduction techniques are required for fast and effective digital forensics triage, and to reduce the time taken to conduct an investigation. This work explores the potential of sub-file cryptographic hashing strategies, where small fragments of files are hashed in lieu of processing the file in its entirety, for contraband detection. Results show that subfile hashing techniques perform well, particularly on solid state media, while also retaining a high degree of discriminating power. Such strategies may offer an opportunity to take advantage of the performance characteristics of non-mechanical media, streamlining future investigations and greatly reducing investigation times.