Email Header analysis(Digital Forensic )
Email header analysis is the process of examining the metadata in an email header to gain insights about the email's origin, route, and authenticity. Email headers contain detailed information about the email's journey from the sender to the recipient, including timestamps, server details, and authentication results. This analysis is often used in cybersecurity, troubleshooting email issues, or investigating potential email scams or phishing attempts.
Scenario-
During a routine workday, you notice an email in your office inbox regarding a "Capture The Flag" (CTF) event. However, instead of appearing in your primary inbox, the email is automatically flagged as spam, immediately raising concerns about its authenticity.
Given the increasing prevalence of phishing attacks and social engineering tactics, you carefully review the email but are unable to determine whether it is a legitimate invitation or a potential security threat.
Adding to the suspicion, the email contains a clickable link, which further heightens your caution. Aware of the risks associated with clicking on unknown links, such as credential theft, malware downloads, or unauthorized system access, you decide to take a proactive approach. Rather than engaging with the email directly, you escalate the matter by forwarding it to the Forensic Department for further analysis.
This ensures that cybersecurity experts can thoroughly examine the email’s contents, verify its origin, and determine whether it poses any security risks. Your vigilance highlights the importance of email security awareness and reinforces the need for the careful handling of unexpected digital communications in the workplace.