SQLite Forensics Recovery

The cybersecurity team has recovered a suspicious copy of a SQLite database extracted from a compromised system. The file is damaged, but it is believed to still contain sensitive information that could help reconstruct what happened.

In this lab, you will learn:

• Analysis of corrupted files
• Use of basic forensic tools for data extraction
• First steps with databases in cybersecurity

🌱 How to start this lab

👉 This challenge uses a dedicated virtual machine for forensic recovery of damaged files.

1. If you don't have it yet, download the virtual machine from this link:

1https://storage.googleapis.com/cybersecurity-machines/brokendb-lab.ova

1. Import the virtual machine into VirtualBox or VMware.
2. Start the VM and log in as the default user student:4geeks-lab. You will see a lightweight Linux environment with all the necessary tools.

Your Mission

You have accessed a forensic copy of a database extracted from a compromised system. The records suggest it may contain highly sensitive information. However, the file is corrupted and cannot be opened using conventional methods.

Your task is to recover as much data as possible from the database using system tools and binary analysis techniques. If you manage to find and reconstruct your findings, you'll be able to validate that the important data hasn't been completely lost.

Validation

When you believe you've found what you're looking for, run:

1validate-flag '4GEEKS{what_you_found}'

Make sure to use the command exactly as shown above, with the flag enclosed in single quotes ''.

Now it's your turn to think like a real forensic analyst. This is not a typical investigation: no logs, no network… just you and a damaged file that could contain crucial secrets.

Will you be able to reconstruct enough to obtain the vital information?

Good luck, Analyst!