The answer is performing an ADB backup, which is the most appropriate logical acquisition method for a locked Android phone. This technique leverages the Android Debug Bridge backup protocol to extract application data without bypassing the lock screen, provided USB debugging is enabled and the device authorizes the backup session. Unlike physical acquisition methods that require root access or chip-off techniques, ADB backup is a non-invasive logical acquisition method that works within the phone’s security boundaries, making it ideal for preserving evidence integrity. On the CHFI exam, this question tests your understanding of forensic acquisition categories—specifically that logical methods like ADB backup can retrieve user data from a locked device without defeating the PIN, a common trap where candidates mistakenly choose brute-force or JTAG approaches. A helpful memory tip: think “ADB = App Data Backup” to recall that this method targets application-level data while respecting the lock screen.
CHFI Mobile and Malware Forensics Practice Question
This CHFI practice question tests your understanding of mobile and malware forensics. Compare every option against the stated constraints before choosing — the best answer satisfies all requirements, not just the most obvious one. 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 phone is found at a crime scene. The phone is locked with a PIN. The forensic examiner wants to extract data without bypassing the lock. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate logical acquisition method?
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Perform an ADB backup
ADB backup (option C) is the most appropriate logical acquisition method for a locked Android phone because it uses the Android Backup protocol over ADB, which can extract application data without needing to bypass the lock screen, provided USB debugging is enabled and the device authorizes the backup. This method does not require root access or physical disassembly, making it a non-invasive logical acquisition technique.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
Use Cellebrite UFED to perform a file system extraction
Why it's wrong here
File system extraction often requires bootloader unlock or exploits; not always possible on locked device.
✗
Perform a physical acquisition via JTAG
Why it's wrong here
JTAG is invasive and requires disassembly; it's typically used when device is locked or damaged.
✓
Perform an ADB backup
Why this is correct
ADB backup can extract user app data if USB debugging was enabled before locking; it does not require root.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
Use ADB to pull /data/data/ directory
Why it's wrong here
ADB pull of /data/data/ requires root access, which is not available without bypassing lock.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
EC-Council often tests the misconception that ADB pull can access /data/data/ on a locked device, but in reality, ADB pull requires root or an unlocked device, while ADB backup is a distinct protocol that can extract data without bypassing the lock screen under specific conditions.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
ADB backup uses the 'adb backup' command to create a .ab file containing app data via the Backup Manager service, which on Android 4.0+ can extract data from apps that allow backup (android:allowBackup=true) without root. However, if USB debugging is not enabled or the device does not authorize the host, ADB backup fails; this method is only viable when the phone has USB debugging enabled and the forensic examiner has the device's authorization (e.g., via a trusted host or prior pairing).
KKey Concepts to Remember
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
TExam Day Tips
→Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
→Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
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.
Related glossary terms
Concepts from this question explained
These glossary pages explain the core terms tested in this CHFI question in full detail.
Mobile and Malware Forensics — This question tests Mobile and Malware Forensics — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Perform an ADB backup — ADB backup (option C) is the most appropriate logical acquisition method for a locked Android phone because it uses the Android Backup protocol over ADB, which can extract application data without needing to bypass the lock screen, provided USB debugging is enabled and the device authorizes the backup. This method does not require root access or physical disassembly, making it a non-invasive logical acquisition technique.
What should I do if I get this CHFI question wrong?
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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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.
Question Discussion
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