Quick Answer
The correct answer is logical acquisition via ADB backup. This is because the `adb backup -apk -shared -all -f backup.ab` command invokes Android’s high-level backup service, which exports user data and installed APKs into a structured archive rather than performing a raw bit-for-bit copy of the device’s storage. On the Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator CHFI exam, this question tests your ability to distinguish between logical and physical acquisition methods, with ADB backup being a classic example of a logical technique that relies on the operating system’s cooperation. A common trap is confusing this with a physical dump, but remember that ADB backup only accesses data the backup manager chooses to share—it cannot capture deleted files or unallocated space. Memory tip: think “AB” in “backup.ab” stands for “Application Backup,” not “Absolute Bit-copy.”
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.
An Android forensic analyst connects a suspect device to their workstation and issues the command "adb backup -apk -shared -all -f backup.ab". Which type of acquisition is being performed?
Manual acquisition through device UI
Why wrong: Manual acquisition involves interacting with the device screen, not ADB commands.
Physical acquisition via JTAG
Why wrong: JTAG is a hardware technique; this command uses ADB.
Logical acquisition via ADB backup
ADB backup creates a logical backup of app data and settings.
File system acquisition via dd
Why wrong: dd is used for physical or file system acquisition; ADB backup is logical.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Logical acquisition via ADB backup
The command `adb backup -apk -shared -all -f backup.ab` creates a full Android backup via the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) protocol. This is a logical acquisition because it requests user data and installed APKs through the high-level backup service, not a bit-for-bit copy of the storage. The resulting `.ab` file is an Android Backup archive, which contains files and directories that the device’s backup manager chooses to export, making it a logical extraction.
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.
Manual acquisition through device UI
Why it's wrong here
Manual acquisition involves interacting with the device screen, not ADB commands.
Physical acquisition via JTAG
Why it's wrong here
JTAG is a hardware technique; this command uses ADB.
Logical acquisition via ADB backup
Why this is correct
ADB backup creates a logical backup of app data and settings.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
File system acquisition via dd
Why it's wrong here
dd is used for physical or file system acquisition; ADB backup is logical.
Common exam traps
Cisco often tests the distinction between logical and physical acquisition by presenting a command that looks like it might be low-level (e.g., containing 'backup' or 'all') but is actually a logical method, leading candidates to mistakenly choose physical or file system acquisition.
Trap categories for this question
Command / output trap
Manual acquisition involves interacting with the device screen, not ADB commands.
Detailed technical explanation
The `adb backup` command uses the Android Backup Service, which is a logical extraction method that relies on the device’s backup transport (e.g., `BackupManagerService`) to package app data and system settings. The resulting `.ab` file is a tar archive with a custom header (including encryption and compression flags), and it does not include the operating system, boot partition, or raw disk blocks. In a real-world scenario, this method fails if the device is not rooted or if the app does not declare `android:allowBackup="true"` in its manifest, limiting the data that can be acquired.
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: Logical acquisition via ADB backup — The command `adb backup -apk -shared -all -f backup.ab` creates a full Android backup via the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) protocol. This is a logical acquisition because it requests user data and installed APKs through the high-level backup service, not a bit-for-bit copy of the storage. The resulting `.ab` file is an Android Backup archive, which contains files and directories that the device’s backup manager chooses to export, making it a logical extraction.
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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Last reviewed: Jun 24, 2026
This CHFI practice question is part of Courseiva's free EC-Council certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the CHFI exam.
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