The correct approach is to create a forensic copy and use a write blocker to access the copy with appropriate software. This method preserves the integrity of the original evidence while allowing the analyst to handle unreadable files in forensic examination without risking alteration. The write blocker ensures that no data is written back to the source drive, maintaining a verifiable chain of custody, which is critical when the file is suspected to contain contraband images. On the Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator CHFI exam, this scenario tests your understanding of the forensic acquisition workflow and the rules of evidence, often appearing as a trap where candidates might mistakenly open the file directly on the original media. Remember the core principle: never work on the original evidence—always use a write-blocked forensic duplicate. A useful memory tip is “Copy, Block, then Unlock”—meaning create a forensic copy, apply a write blocker, then use validated tools to unlock and view the content.
CHFI Computer Forensics Fundamentals and Process Practice Question
This CHFI practice question tests your understanding of computer forensics fundamentals and process. 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.
During a forensic examination, the analyst encounters a file that is not automatically readable by forensic tools. The analyst suspects the file contains contraband images. Which of the following is the BEST approach to handle this evidence in accordance with the rules of evidence?
Clue words in this question
Noticing these words before you look at the options changes how you read each choice.
Clue: "best"
Why it matters: Signals that multiple options may be partially correct. Choose the option that most directly solves the exact problem described, not the one that sounds most complete.
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Create a forensic copy and use a write blocker to access the copy with appropriate software.
The analyst should document the file's location and metadata, then use a validated tool to extract and view the content while maintaining a chain of custody and ensuring the original is not altered.
Key principle: NAT direction and interface roles matter as much as the IP address mapping. Inside/outside designation controls which traffic is translated.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
Delete the file to prevent accidental distribution.
Why it's wrong here
Deleting evidence is spoliation.
✓
Create a forensic copy and use a write blocker to access the copy with appropriate software.
Why this is correct
Working on a copy preserves the original.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "best" in the question point toward this answer.
Related concept
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
✗
Ignore the file because it cannot be easily read.
Why it's wrong here
Evidence must be examined; ignoring it is negligence.
✗
Open the file using the original application on the suspect's computer.
Why it's wrong here
This could alter evidence and is not recommended.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: NAT rules depend on direction and matching traffic
NAT is not only about the public address. The inside/outside interface roles and the ACL or rule that matches traffic are just as important.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
NAT questions usually test address translation, overload/PAT behaviour, static mappings and whether the right traffic is being translated. Read the interface direction and address terms carefully.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
PAT allows many inside hosts to share one public address using ports.
Inside local and inside global describe the private and translated addresses.
NAT ACLs identify traffic for translation, not always security filtering.
TExam Day Tips
→Identify inside and outside interfaces first.
→Check whether the scenario needs static NAT, dynamic NAT or PAT.
→Do not confuse NAT matching ACLs with normal packet-filtering intent.
Key takeaway
NAT direction and interface roles matter as much as the IP address mapping. Inside/outside designation controls which traffic is translated.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A small business has 20 workstations on the 192.168.1.0/24 network and one public IP from its ISP. The router uses PAT (NAT overload) so all 20 devices share one public address using different source ports. NAT questions test whether you understand the four address terms and which direction each translation applies.
Related glossary terms
Concepts from this question explained
These glossary pages explain the core terms tested in this CHFI question in full detail.
Review the four NAT address types (inside local, inside global, outside local, outside global), PAT port overload, and static vs dynamic NAT use cases. Then practise related CHFI NAT questions on configuration and troubleshooting.
Computer Forensics Fundamentals and Process — This question tests Computer Forensics Fundamentals and Process — Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Create a forensic copy and use a write blocker to access the copy with appropriate software. — The analyst should document the file's location and metadata, then use a validated tool to extract and view the content while maintaining a chain of custody and ensuring the original is not altered.
What should I do if I get this CHFI question wrong?
Review the four NAT address types (inside local, inside global, outside local, outside global), PAT port overload, and static vs dynamic NAT use cases. Then practise related CHFI NAT questions on configuration and troubleshooting.
Are there clue words in this question I should notice?
Yes — watch for: "best". Signals that multiple options may be partially correct. Choose the option that most directly solves the exact problem described, not the one that sounds most complete.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
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