Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI) Practice Exam 2026 – The Complete All-in-One Guide to Exam Mastery!

The action that should be avoided during data acquisition is working with the original evidence directly. This is crucial in digital forensic investigations to preserve the integrity of the original data. When the original evidence is altered or compromised, it can lead to loss of information, potential contamination, and can void the evidentiary value of the data collected.

Instead, forensic investigators use bit-for-bit imaging or cloning techniques to create an exact duplicate of the original media. This allows them to conduct their analysis on the copy rather than on the original, ensuring that the original evidence remains unaltered and pristine for any potential legal proceedings.

On the other hand, creating a hash of the original media helps verify data integrity, documenting the procedure meticulously provides a clear chain of custody and methodology, and ensuring proper handling of the evidence helps maintain the chain of custody and prevents physical damage or loss. All these actions are vital components of best practices in forensic analysis and reinforce the reliability and validity of the investigation.