Master the CHFI Challenge 2026: Crack the Code and Become a Cyber Sleuth!

In the context of data acquisition forensics investigation, working on the original storage medium rather than a duplicated copy is a fundamental mistake. The correct approach involves creating a forensic duplicate of the original storage medium to preserve the integrity of the evidence. This ensures that the original data remains unaltered and provides a reliable point of reference for any forensic analysis. By using a duplicated copy, investigators can perform their analysis and examinations without the risk of corrupting or changing the original evidence.

The considerations for proper data acquisition include allowing only authorized personnel to access the evidence, which helps maintain the chain of custody and ensures security. Protecting the evidence from extremes in temperature is critical to preserving its state and integrity. Disabling all remote access to the system is a security measure that prevents any external interference during the investigation. All these practices adhere to established forensic protocols, emphasizing the critical nature of handling evidence correctly to support any potential legal proceedings.