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312-49 · Question #235

312-49 Question #235: Real Exam Question with Answer & Explanation

The correct answer is C: While booting, the machine may create temporary files that can delete evidence. When a file is deleted in most operating systems, only the reference (directory entry/MFT record) is removed and the clusters are marked as available — the actual data remains until overwritten. This means the longer a disk is in use, the MORE likely data will be overwritten (n

Submitted by viktor_hu· Apr 18, 2026Disk Forensics

Question

In the context of file deletion process, which of the following statement holds true?

Options

  • AWhen files are deleted, the data is overwritten and the cluster marked as available
  • BThe longer a disk is in use, the less likely it is that deleted files will be overwritten
  • CWhile booting, the machine may create temporary files that can delete evidence
  • DSecure delete programs work by completely overwriting the file in one go

Explanation

When a file is deleted in most operating systems, only the reference (directory entry/MFT record) is removed and the clusters are marked as available — the actual data remains until overwritten. This means the longer a disk is in use, the MORE likely data will be overwritten (not less). Secure delete programs typically perform multiple overwrite passes, not just one. The correct true statement is option C: during the boot process, the OS may create or modify temporary files (e.g., swap files, logs), which can potentially overwrite disk areas that contain forensic evidence.

Topics

#File deletion process#Data overwriting#Forensic data integrity#Temporary files

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