IoT forensics: What kind of personal data can be found on discarded, recycled, or re-sold IoT devices

Abstract

With the advancement in science and technology, the demand for electronic Internet of Things (IoT) devices has increased to store and process digital data. With the advancement in IoT technology, we are more reliant on IoT devices to perform our regular tasks. IoT Forensics deals with the investigation of IoT devices such as smartphones, tablets, smart watches, or any device which is connected to the Internet. The data on these devices can still be retrieved via IoT forensics even if they are destroyed, resold, or misplaced. Before discarding any IoT device, we must consider how to secure the data stored on them. We are then going to discuss the several types of personal data that could be retrieved from discarded IoT devices. Finally, we are going to discuss the protection measures for the safe disposal of IoT devices.

Subject Classification:

• 68M25
• 68P27
• 68M11

Keywords:

• IoT devices
• IoT Forensics
• Second-hand
• Data recovery
• Data disposal