Quick Answer
The correct answer is the `call_history.db` database, which directly stores the call log entries including timestamps, durations, and contact identifiers. This database is the primary repository for all call history records in an iOS backup, while the `AddressBook.db` (or `Contacts.sqlitedb` on newer iOS versions) provides the linked contact names, together enabling a forensic analyst to reconstruct a complete call history with caller identities. On the Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator CHFI exam, this question tests your ability to identify specific SQLite databases within iOS backups that hold forensic artifacts, often appearing in scenarios involving mobile device analysis. A common trap is confusing the `call_history.db` with the general `SMS.db` or `voicemail.db`, but remember that call logs are isolated in their own dedicated database. Memory tip: think “CH” for Call History—the `call_history.db` is your go-to for timestamps and durations, while contacts are always a separate lookup.
This CHFI practice question tests your understanding of mobile and malware forensics. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A forensic analyst is examining an iOS device backup and wants to extract call history records. Which SQLite databases and/or files contain relevant call history data? (Select TWO.)
Notes.sqlite
Why wrong: Stores notes, not call history.
SMS.db
Why wrong: SMS.db stores SMS/iMessage messages, not call history.
AddressBook.db
Contains contact names and phone numbers that can be correlated with call records.
Calendar.sqlite
Why wrong: Stores calendar events, not call history.
call_history.db
This database stores detailed call records including timestamps, duration, and associated handle IDs.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
AddressBook.db
Option C is correct because the AddressBook.db (or Contacts.sqlitedb on newer iOS versions) stores contact information, and call history records are linked to contacts via the `call_history.db` file. The `call_history.db` database contains the actual call log entries, including timestamps, durations, and associated contact identifiers. Together, these two databases allow an analyst to reconstruct call history with contact names.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Notes.sqlite
Why it's wrong here
Stores notes, not call history.
SMS.db
Why it's wrong here
SMS.db stores SMS/iMessage messages, not call history.
AddressBook.db
Why this is correct
Contains contact names and phone numbers that can be correlated with call records.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Calendar.sqlite
Why it's wrong here
Stores calendar events, not call history.
call_history.db
Why this is correct
This database stores detailed call records including timestamps, duration, and associated handle IDs.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Common exam traps
EC-Council often tests the misconception that SMS.db contains call logs because both involve communication records, but SMS.db is strictly for text messages and iMessages, not voice call history.
Detailed technical explanation
On iOS, call history is stored in `/private/var/mobile/Library/CallHistoryDB/CallHistory.storedata` (or `call_history.db` in older versions), which uses SQLite with a schema containing tables like `ZCALLRECORD` and `ZHANDLE`. The `AddressBook.db` (or `Contacts.sqlitedb`) provides the `ABPerson` table with contact names and phone numbers, allowing joins on phone number hashes to resolve caller identity. In a real-world investigation, analysts often extract both databases and use SQL queries to correlate call records with contacts, especially when the device is locked or encrypted.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A practitioner preparing for the CHFI exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
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FAQ
Mobile and Malware Forensics — This question tests Mobile and Malware Forensics — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: AddressBook.db — Option C is correct because the AddressBook.db (or Contacts.sqlitedb on newer iOS versions) stores contact information, and call history records are linked to contacts via the `call_history.db` file. The `call_history.db` database contains the actual call log entries, including timestamps, durations, and associated contact identifiers. Together, these two databases allow an analyst to reconstruct call history with contact names.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Same concept, more angles
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Variation 1. A forensic analyst is examining an iOS backup taken from a suspect's iPhone using iTunes. Which of the following SQLite databases would contain the suspect's call history?
mediumWhy B: The call history on an iOS device is stored in a SQLite database named `call_history.db` (or `call_history.db` within the root domain of the user's backup). When an iTunes backup is created, this database is included in the backup manifest and can be extracted and queried to retrieve call logs, including timestamps, durations, and phone numbers. Option B is correct because it is the specific database that contains call history records.
Last reviewed: Jun 30, 2026
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