How can one identify hidden or deleted files in a forensic examination?

Identifying hidden or deleted files during a forensic examination is effectively achieved through file carving techniques based on file signatures. This method involves searching the raw data on a storage medium for known patterns or signatures of specific file types. Even when files have been deleted or are hidden, their underlying data can still reside in the storage space until it is completely overwritten.

File carving works independently of the file system's metadata, allowing for recovery of files that do not have valid entries left in the file system. This technique is essential, as many deleted files simply remain on the disk until they are overwritten, making it possible for forensic examiners to restore these files for inspection and analysis.

The other methods mentioned have limitations. Keyword searches can only find files based on visible data and do not directly locate files that are hidden or deleted. Examining metadata alone would not reveal the contents of deleted files or hidden files because such information may not be present anymore. Analyzing user behavior logs may provide context about usage and access, but it does not help in uncovering actual file data that has been deleted or hidden. Thus, file carving is the most reliable method for recovering these types of files during a forensic examination.