Quick Answer
The answer is Notes app data, as the file '3d0d7e5fb2ce288813306e4d4636395e047a3d28' is the SHA-1 hash-named SQLite database for Apple Notes in an iOS backup. This hash corresponds to the domain 'AppDomain-com.apple.mobilenotes' and stores the NotesStore.sqlite file, which contains user-created notes, attachments, and metadata. On the CHFI exam, this artifact tests your ability to recognize hashed filenames from iTunes backups and map them to their application domains, a common forensic skill for recovering deleted or hidden data. A frequent trap is confusing this hash with a plist or cache file, but the key identifier is its length and the 'AppDomain' prefix in the backup manifest. Memory tip: think "3d0d = Notes" — the hash starts with '3d', and 'Notes' has three letters, helping you recall it's the notes database.
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.
During an iOS forensic examination, an analyst extracts an iTunes backup and finds the file '3d0d7e5fb2ce288813306e4d4636395e047a3d28'. Which type of data does this file typically contain?
Call history
Why wrong: Call history is stored in call_history.db with a different hash.
SMS and iMessage conversations
Why wrong: SMS.db is stored with a different hash (e.g., 3d0d7e5fb... is associated with Notes).
Keychain data
Why wrong: Keychain data is stored in a different format (keychain-2.db) with a different hash.
Notes app data
The hash corresponds to the Notes app's SQLite database (NotesStore.sqlite).
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Notes app data
The file '3d0d7e5fb2ce288813306e4d4636395e047a3d28' is the SQLite database (NotesStore.sqlite) that stores Apple's Notes app data in an iOS backup. Its SHA-1 hash name corresponds to the domain 'AppDomain-com.apple.mobilenotes' and contains the notes, attachments, and metadata. This is a well-known artifact in iOS forensics for recovering user-created notes.
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.
Call history
Why it's wrong here
Call history is stored in call_history.db with a different hash.
SMS and iMessage conversations
Why it's wrong here
SMS.db is stored with a different hash (e.g., 3d0d7e5fb... is associated with Notes).
Keychain data
Why it's wrong here
Keychain data is stored in a different format (keychain-2.db) with a different hash.
Notes app data
Why this is correct
The hash corresponds to the Notes app's SQLite database (NotesStore.sqlite).
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Common exam traps
Cisco often tests the misconception that all hash-named files in iOS backups are SMS or iMessage databases, but the specific hash '3d0d7e5fb2ce288813306e4d4636395e047a3d28' is uniquely tied to the Notes app, not SMS.
Detailed technical explanation
Under the hood, iOS backups use a domain-based file system where each app's data is stored in a directory named after its bundle ID (e.g., 'AppDomain-com.apple.mobilenotes'). The file '3d0d7e5fb2ce288813306e4d4636395e047a3d28' is the SHA-1 hash of the relative path 'NotesStore.sqlite' within that domain. In real-world forensics, this database can contain deleted notes, rich text, attachments, and timestamps, making it critical for recovering user-generated content even after deletion.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
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.
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: Notes app data — The file '3d0d7e5fb2ce288813306e4d4636395e047a3d28' is the SQLite database (NotesStore.sqlite) that stores Apple's Notes app data in an iOS backup. Its SHA-1 hash name corresponds to the domain 'AppDomain-com.apple.mobilenotes' and contains the notes, attachments, and metadata. This is a well-known artifact in iOS forensics for recovering user-created notes.
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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