What does file signature analysis aim to identify?

File signature analysis specifically focuses on identifying file types by examining the binary signatures contained within the file rather than relying solely on the file extensions. Each file type has a unique signature, often found in the file's header, which provides critical information about the format and structure of the file. By analyzing these signatures, forensics professionals can accurately determine the type of file, which is essential for understanding its nature, potential content, and how it can be processed or examined further.

Using file extensions alone can be misleading, as they can be easily manipulated or changed, potentially obscuring the true file format. Therefore, file signature analysis is a vital technique in digital forensics for ensuring that the correct analysis is performed based on the actual content of the file rather than its misleading name. This method of identification is crucial when investigating incidents involving file tampering or when the integrity of filenames is in question.