What is one common method for analyzing email headers in forensic investigations?

One common method for analyzing email headers in forensic investigations is tracing the path of an email to determine its origin. Email headers contain crucial metadata, including the "Received" fields, which provide a detailed account of the email's journey from the sender to the recipient. By tracing this path, forensic analysts can identify the originating mail server, the time the email was sent, and any relay points it passed through. This information can help verify the authenticity of the email, uncover potentially malicious intentions, and determine if the email was spoofed or if the sender's identity can be confirmed.

This method is integral to forensic investigations, as it builds a clear timeline and can lead to the identification of the perpetrator in cases of fraud or cybercrime, enhancing the overall understanding of the incident being investigated. Analyzing the full path of the email allows investigators to put together a more comprehensive picture of the situation.