What are forensic email headers?
Forensic headers contain message routing and processing information useful for investigation. They document: server path, timestamps, authentication results, and processing details enabling trace of message origin and handling.
Key forensic headers: Received (server path), **Authentication-Results** (**SPF**/**DKIM**/**DMARC** outcomes), **X-Originating-IP** (client IP), **Message-ID** (unique identifier), and **Return-Path** (bounce destination).
Forensic value: headers reveal true origin (not just claimed From address), routing through potentially compromised systems, authentication failures indicating **spoofing**, and timestamps establishing timeline.
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