Forensic analysis

Incremental updates are an internal mechanism of the PDF format that allows a document to be modified by adding new data to the end of the file without removing the original information. Although this behavior is legitimate and used by many PDF software applications, it is also exploited in document fraud to alter amounts, dates, or identities without leaving visible traces. Forensic analysis of incremental updates makes it possible to detect these invisible modifications and verify the true authenticity of a PDF file.

Error Level Analysis (ELA) is a forensic analysis technique used to detect image manipulation by examining JPEG compression levels. It makes it possible to identify modifications invisible to the naked eye and verify the authenticity of digital documents.

Forensic image analysis makes it possible to detect falsifications invisible to the naked eye by examining pixels, compression, and metadata. It helps identify fraudulent modifications, such as text changes, photo replacement, or the addition of elements, and is an essential tool for verifying the authenticity of digital documents and preventing document fraud.

Overlays in a PDF make it possible to hide or modify information without deleting the original content of the document. This technique is commonly used to falsify payslips, bank statements, or supporting documents by layering new elements over existing data. Invisible to the naked eye, these modifications can only be detected through forensic analysis of the PDF file’s internal structure, which makes it possible to identify added objects and inconsistencies that reveal a forgery.

PDF forensic analysis makes it possible to verify a document’s authenticity and integrity by examining its internal structure, metadata, and modification history. It allows the detection of falsifications that are invisible to the naked eye, such as changes to amounts, dates, or content. This method is essential for preventing document fraud and securing verification processes.

Metadata is invisible information embedded within digital files, such as images and PDFs. It makes it possible to identify a document’s origin, the software used to create it, and any modifications that may have been made. Forensic metadata analysis is an essential method for detecting falsifications, verifying the authenticity of a file, and strengthening the reliability of document verification processes.