Magec: An image searching tool for detecting forged images in forensic investigation

Manipulation of digital images for the purpose of forgery is a rapidly growing phenomenon that poses a challenge for cyber-crime investigators. Distinguishing original images from duplicates and the number of original copies within the same media are some examples of challenges presented by duplicate digital images. In this paper, we present a new image-searching tool called, Magec, to detect duplicate image(s) on digital media, using the original image modification attributes as a signature. First, we describe the tool and the methods used to detect duplicate images, then we evaluate the tool's performance based on the number of folders it searches and the number of files it searches for. Later, we present the analysis of the tool using different operating system attributes. The goal is to find copies of the same object that is hidden; compressed images, or images saved with different attributes and demonstrates which one is the original image and thereby deduce which ones are copies. This research helps in better utilization of small/limited capacity devices, where limited storage capacity may be a problem. The experimental results prove that the presented search tool provides faster and accurate results. Finally, the conducted tests on the Magec tool analyzed, and verified, and the results are presented alongside with challenges identified.