Topic: Investigating AI-Generated and Manipulated Digital Evidence
Abstract: The growing sophistication and accessibility of AI-generated content are creating new layers of complexity for forensic investigators. When deepfakes, synthetic identities, AI-assisted fraud, and manipulated digital artifacts enter an investigation, the challenge shifts from simply collecting evidence to verifying its authenticity, understanding its origin, and placing it reliably within the broader incident context.
This session takes a practical look at what investigating AI-enabled incidents actually requires. It covers the considerations that shape evidence preservation and chain of custody in these cases, and the acquisition challenges investigators face across endpoints and cloud environments. It also looks at the role that metadata and contextual analysis play in supporting forensic conclusions. A central theme is the importance of independent corroboration: using multiple sources to validate evidence that may be synthetic, altered, or otherwise unreliable.
The session also addresses how investigators can build complete, defensible investigative narratives in cases where AI-generated or manipulated content is present, and how they can adapt established forensic methodologies to meet the demands of an increasingly complex evidence landscape.
Key Takeaways:
- Recognizing the unique investigative challenges that synthetic and AI-manipulated evidence introduces
- Essential considerations for preserving AI-related digital evidence with integrity
- Navigating acquisition challenges across endpoints, cloud platforms, and distributed digital environments
- How metadata and contextual analysis strengthen forensic conclusions in AI-enabled cases
- Why independent corroboration is critical when evaluating potentially synthetic or manipulated evidence
- Building complete, reliable investigative narratives in incidents involving AI-generated content
- Ensuring the defensibility and reliability of forensic investigations of AI-enabled incidents
Speaker:
Amber Schroader, CEO & Founder, Paraben Corporation
Bio: With more than 30 years of experience at the forefront of digital forensics, Amber Schroader has built a career defined by innovation, education, and practical advancement of the field. As CEO and Founder of Paraben Corporation, she has developed widely adopted software, training programs, and investigative guides spanning data recovery across smartphones, hard drives, cloud platforms, email systems, and gaming environments.
Her contributions extend beyond tools and technology. Amber established evidence seizure and processing protocols now used by organizations across the globe, and she introduced two influential forensic concepts, the “360-degree approach to digital forensics” and “Forensics of Everything (FoE),” both reflecting her commitment to addressing the full scope of digital evidence challenges. A recognized design architect, course developer, and instructor, she continues to shape the next generation of forensic professionals through her writing, teaching, and industry speaking engagements.
