Challenges of Data Provenance for Cloud Forensic Investigations

Cloud computing has gained popularity due to its efficiency, robustness and cost effectiveness. Carrying out digital forensic investigations in the cloud is currently a relevant and open issue. The root of this issue is the fact that servers cannot be physically accessed, coupled with the dynamic and distributed nature of cloud computing with regards to data processing and storage. This renders traditional methods of evidence collection impractical. The use of provenance data in cloud forensics is critical as it provides forensic investigators with data history in terms of people, entities and activities involved in producing related data objects. Therefore, cloud forensics requires effective provenance collection mechanisms. This paper provides an overview of current provenance challenges in cloud computing and identifies limitations of current provenance collection mechanisms. Recommendations for additional research in digital provenance for cloud forensics are also presented.