TSK istat Command for Inode Block Analysis
A CHFI expert creates a forensics image of a pen drive using AccessData FTK Imager during a computer forensics investigation. The investigator uses The Sleuth Kit (TSK) to examine an ext4 file system on a Linux disk image and suspects data tampering. The expert decides to verify inode metadata for a critical file. However, he notes an unexpected block allocation in the inode details. Which TSK command-line tool and argument should the investigator utilize to examine the addresses of all allocated disk units for the suspicious inode?
Community Votes
100% of anonymous learners picked answer D. Votes are pick records left by other test-takers — they are not the verified answer.
Community Insight
The core concept tested is distinguishing between file listing commands and detailed inode analysis tools, while avoiding the trap of selecting general filesystem statistics utilities.
This question tests the use of The Sleuth Kit (TSK) command-line tools for examining ext4 inode metadata in Linux forensics. It establishes that the 'istat' utility with the '-B' flag is the correct method to retrieve block addresses for a specific inode.
Candidates often select 'fsstat' because it deals with filesystems, but this tool provides only high-level statistics rather than specific inode or block address details.
Community Discussion (3 comments)
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Expert Analysis
Why the Answer Is Correct
The correct answer is D. The 'istat' tool in The Sleuth Kit is specifically designed to display detailed metadata about a specific inode, including its status, size, timestamps, and block pointers. The '-B' argument instructs 'istat' to list the addresses of all allocated blocks (disk units) associated with the specified inode number ('num'). This directly addresses the investigator's need to verify block allocation for a critical file.Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A, 'fsstat', provides summary information about the filesystem structure (such as superblock details) but does not inspect individual inodes or their block maps. Option B, 'img_stat', is used to gather information about the disk image file itself (like format and size), not the internal file system structures. Option C, 'fls', lists files and directories within the filesystem but does not provide the low-level block address details required for forensic verification of data tampering.Community Comment Notes
The community consensus strongly supports option D. As user aqeel1506 noted, "istat: This command in The Sleuth Kit (TSK) is used to display details about a specific inode... -B: This argument is used with istat to display the addresses of all allocated blocks." Another commenter confirmed this by referencing external documentation on the 'istat' command's functionality regarding unallocated inodes and block pointers.Exam Strategy
When dealing with TSK questions, memorize the primary function of each tool: 'fls' for file listing, 'icat' for content extraction, 'istat' for inode metadata, and 'fsstat' for filesystem stats. Focus on the keyword 'inode' to immediately narrow down your choice to 'istat'.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between fls and istat in TSK?
fls lists filenames and directory entries, while istat displays detailed metadata for a specific inode, including block addresses.
Why is fsstat incorrect for checking inode details?
fsstat only shows high-level filesystem statistics like superblock info, not individual inode data or block allocations.