Which sequence accurately represents the steps involved in the email investigation process?

The sequence of steps involved in the email investigation process is accurately represented by the chosen answer. Starting with the identification and preservation of the email data (step 6), investigators need to ensure that relevant data is secured without altering it. This preservation step is critical, as any alterations can compromise the integrity of the investigation.

Next, the investigation moves on to the collection of evidence (step 4). This step involves gathering emails, their metadata, and any associated files that could provide further insights into the investigation. Proper collection methods are vital to maintaining a chain of custody for the evidence.

Following this, investigators analyze the collected data (step 1). This analysis includes scrutinizing the contents of the email, assessing headers to determine the source, examining attachments, and looking for any indicators of tampering or phishing attempts. This step is crucial for understanding the context and intent behind the actions of the parties involved.

Once the analysis is complete, the next step is to prepare the findings and evidence for presentation (step 5). This means compiling reports, creating visualizations if necessary, and ensuring that the information is clear and comprehensible for stakeholders or legal proceedings.

After the presentation, the investigator may then move on to disseminate the findings (step 2),