Digital Forensic Investigation of Social Robots: Zenbo, Zenbo Jr., and Misty II as Case Studies

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Source of Publication

Lecture Notes of the Institute for Computer Sciences Social Informatics and Telecommunications Engineering Lnicst

Publication Date

7-16-2026

Abstract

Social robots have recently gained increased popularity due to the enhanced capabilities introduced by the recent development in Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies. These devices are used across a wide spectrum of applications and social contexts, including education, healthcare, customer services, therapy, rehabilitation, and public services. Despite their numerous beneficial uses, social robots can pose serious threats including data breaches, physical harm, unethical or offensive behavior, and involvement in illegal or criminal activities. These threats underscore the need for careful consideration of the digital forensic aspects of social robots, a research area that remains underexplored. In this contribution, we explore social robots’ forensics in terms of forensic investigation procedures, challenges, and outcomes, using three sample models - namely Zenbo, Zenbo Junior, and Misty II- as illustrative case studies. Using a variety of open-source and licensed forensic analysis tools, we present new insights on social robots’ forensics in terms of sound forensic methods, access to digital containers, and retrieval of useful forensic artifacts. Additionally, we discuss some of the challenges encountered during the digital forensic analysis and provide some recommendations for future research. This study can pave the way for developing comprehensive digital forensic frameworks for social robots that consider a broader range of models.

ISBN

[9783032225412]

ISSN

1867-8211

Publisher

Springer Nature Switzerland

Volume

685 LNICST

First Page

202

Last Page

224

Disciplines

Computer Sciences

Keywords

Forensic Investigation, Misty II, Robotic Forensics, Social Robot Forensics, Social Robots, Zenbo, Zenbo Junior

Scopus ID

105046793520

Indexed in Scopus

yes

Open Access

no

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