Mobile Phone Messages

Most investigations today are focused on text messaging.  Devices today use two primary technologies to accompish this communication.  Short Message Service (SMS) and Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS). What is important to remember is that these are not the only types of messaging options available today.  An example of this would be the PIN messaging which is a service unique to the Blackberry Operating Systems.  When RIM sends a device into the market it is programmed with a Personal Identification Number.  Blackberry users can send a message from their device to another device if they know that users PIN number.  In this artical we will talk about the most popular message delivery formats used in devices today.

Short Message Service (SMS)

This technology has received this name because it has a maximum charactar limit of 160.   It has limitations because it is character based.  You are unable to send pictures or videos using this technology. 

SMS messages can be found in the devices memory or on the SIM card.  If using the correct tools an examiner can recover deleted SMS messages but it is very device and time specific. These devices have limited memory storage and in an attempt to use its memory efficiently the operating systems will over write a deleted SMS making it un-recoverable.   

Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS)

MMS messaging works differently the SMS messaging.  When a device receives an MMS message it is actually recieving the MMS notification via SMS.  There is data in the notification which identifies what is in the message.  Typically this is an image or a video but can also be ringtones and other types of data.  This notification facilitates the downloading of the file which is very similar to receiving an email.  Unlike SMS there is no restriction to charcter usage in MMS.  You are also able to send a message to multiple receipients.

Blackberry Messenger (BBM)- Blackberry Devices

Blackberry Messenger uses a PIN which stands for Personal Identification Number.  When a Blackberry device is made it is programmed with a unique number only it will use.  BBM messaging allows the user to send messages to other Blackberry devices if the user knows the other PIN.  BBM messaging uses the internet or celular service to send the messages.  If the Blackberry device is WiFi capable the the message can be sent via Wireless Local Area Network if cellular service is not available.