What type of information can be extracted from a file's properties?

The correct choice highlights the importance of metadata associated with files, which provides valuable context beyond what is visible in the file's content. Metadata includes various details such as the creation date, which indicates when the file was originally made; the modification date, showing the last time the file was altered; and author information, which can help identify the creator of the file.

This metadata is crucial in digital forensics for several reasons: it aids in tracking the file's history, understanding its provenance, and establishing timelines relevant to investigations. The ability to analyze this metadata allows forensic professionals to draw connections between files, users, and events, making it a key aspect of digital investigations.

In contrast, other options focus on limited aspects of file properties or incorrect assumptions. For example, stating that only file size and extension can be extracted overlooks the rich data contained in the metadata itself. Suggesting that all contents of the file can be extracted misconstrues what is meant by "file properties," as contents refer to the actual data within the file rather than the descriptive metadata. Finally, claiming that only recent changes can be accessed misrepresents the broader scope of historical data available through a file's properties. Hence, the emphasis on metadata fully encapsulates the range of information