Quick Answer
The answer is SMS.db. In iOS forensics, the SMS.db SQLite database within an iTunes backup is the primary repository for all text messages and iMessages, including those that have been deleted. Deleted records are not immediately erased; instead, they remain in the `message` table’s rows until overwritten by new data, making this database the critical target for recovering deleted SMS messages during an examination. On the Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator CHFI exam, this question tests your knowledge of iOS file system artifacts and the persistence of deleted data in SQLite databases—a common trap is assuming deleted messages are gone forever or stored in a separate “deleted items” file. Remember the memory tip: “SMS.db stores messages, even the ones you delete.”
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 the iTunes backup of a suspect iPhone. The analyst wants to review deleted SMS messages. Which SQLite database file should be examined?
AddressBook.db
Why wrong: AddressBook.db contains contact information, not SMS messages.
Keyboard.db
Why wrong: Keyboard.db stores keyboard usage data, not SMS messages.
SMS.db
SMS.db is the database containing SMS and iMessage conversations, including deleted entries (until overwritten).
call_history.db
Why wrong: call_history.db stores call logs, not SMS messages.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
SMS.db
In iOS forensics, deleted SMS messages are stored in the SMS.db SQLite database located within the iTunes backup. This database contains the `message` table, which retains deleted messages until overwritten by new data, making it the primary target for recovering deleted iMessages and SMS texts.
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.
AddressBook.db
Why it's wrong here
AddressBook.db contains contact information, not SMS messages.
Keyboard.db
Why it's wrong here
Keyboard.db stores keyboard usage data, not SMS messages.
SMS.db
Why this is correct
SMS.db is the database containing SMS and iMessage conversations, including deleted entries (until overwritten).
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
call_history.db
Why it's wrong here
call_history.db stores call logs, not SMS messages.
Common exam traps
EC-Council often tests the misconception that deleted SMS messages are stored in a separate 'deleted items' database or that call_history.db contains SMS data, leading candidates to overlook the primary SMS.db file.
Detailed technical explanation
The SMS.db file uses SQLite's internal deletion mechanism where records are marked as deleted but not immediately purged from the database pages; forensic tools can carve these remnants from unallocated space. In iOS 10 and later, messages are also stored in a `chat_handle_join` table linking conversations to handles, and deleted messages may persist in the `message` table with a `is_deleted` flag set to 1. Real-world cases often involve recovering messages from this database even after the user has 'deleted' them from the Messages app.
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: SMS.db — In iOS forensics, deleted SMS messages are stored in the SMS.db SQLite database located within the iTunes backup. This database contains the `message` table, which retains deleted messages until overwritten by new data, making it the primary target for recovering deleted iMessages and SMS texts.
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 30, 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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