Ever wondered the procedure that runs behind OCR and scanning technology. Many times, users get confused with the terms scanning and OCR. Both OCR and the scanning technologies are different which works based upon its features. Moreover, these two technologies help an investigating officer to navigate the data which can be potential evidence in cybercrime. As a result, we have come up with the post to shed light on the concept of scanning and OCR technology in an understandable manner.
What is the Difference Between Scanning & Optical Character Recognition?
- Scanning
It is a process in which the software reads the data and indexes the same. Moreover, indexing the data helps to arrange the data in a systematic way. This will also ensure to easily examine the data when there is bulk data to be analyzed. - OCR
It scans the images which comprise text data or keywords in it. OCR will generate the digital document in the editable format through character reading. It will easily transfer large amounts of information from paper to database or electronic records. OCR generates digital documents faster than the normal keyboard inputting method. It avoids the manual editing errors that occur during the keyboard data entry.
An All-Rounder Solution to Smartly Examine Image Files
While examining files from different email applications, it becomes a troublesome task to analyze images that may contain evidential data. For that, availing automated solution such as Email Forensics Software is the best option as it allows to examine emails and its attachments through OCR (Optical Character Recognition) and scanning technology.
The software works in a manner wherein it performs the scanning of the added evidential files in which the software scans through the data and indexes it. This is followed by fetching the artifacts from email attachment files through OCR technology. By this, it helps to acquire relevant artifacts that are associated with the occurred computer crime.
How to Perform Analysis of Files Using OCR (Optical Character Recognition) Technology?
Below-mentioned is the process to recognize and analyze data from the image files with the help of OCR technology that is incorporated in MailXaminer Email Examiner Software.
- To avail OCR technology, the settings need to be changed within the Case. For that, go to Settings in the case screen.
- Under the Settings tab, find and mark the checkbox corresponding to OCR option and click on Save. These settings serve as the global settings for the software and will be applicable for every evidence import.
- After adding a new evidence file with OCR setting enabled, the software will provide a preview of the data items of the evidence file in the Search tab.
- Using the Search bar, type the specific keyword to find it from email’s attachments such as DOCX, PDF, PNG, JPEG, etc.
- After which, the tool will display all the Matching Results with respect to the input data.
- Upon clicking on the resultant email, a new window will open up. Choose Attachment tab from the window and preview the attachments by clicking on them.
Scanning and OCR: Now, No More Confusion!
After discussing the major difference between the OCR & scanning technology from the above section. Now, you can easily understand about Scanning technology which scans and indexes the data in an organized manner. Whereas, the OCR technology is used to generate the digital document in an editable format and help users to deal with text present in the image which is printed, typed or handwritten. The software permits to examine un-editable files like PDF, JPEG, PNG using OCR technology.