Power Surge to computer?
Data Recovery and Restoration, IT Failure Analysis
Scenario
LWG was contacted by an insurance carrier to perform an inspection and analysis of a computer that was identified as damaged due to a power surge.
There was no backup and no data residing on any other computer. This claim was presented as a total loss of business files, documents and graphics for the life of the insured company.
Challenge
Initially, LWG was not able to obtain the claimed computer without several weeks of resistance from the Insured. Finally, LWG was able to receive this computer and completed a thorough analysis.
The claimed computer was an Apple iMac and was received with the original power cord. Upon initial inspection, LWG observed arcing, burning, and melting on the plug end of the cord that would connect to the wall receptacle. With continued review, LWG observed spattering at the base of the hot and neutral outlet prongs, but did not observe the type of damages to the computer that would be consistent with power surge. Because of these inconsistencies and initial inspections of the computer, LWG was able to power the computer and verify the operation.
During this level of inspection, LWG was able to observe the operation of the insured’s computer. LWG identified that the hard disk drive was emitting a clicking noise when initially powered. Soon after, the hard drive would turn off. Because the computer would remain operational, an error message displayed to indicate that no bootable device was available. LWG continued operational testing and verified that the hardware components, with exception of the hard disk drive, were fully operational.
Outcome
LWG was authorized to open the iMac and inspect the internal hard disk drive. During the teardown of the computer, LWG observed fasteners that were not fully sealed and others that were missing. Once removed, it was observed that the hard disk drive had been removed previously, with further observation confirming that the hard disk drive had been opened. LWG removed and opened the hard disk drive to determine the cause and extent of damage from this hard disk drive. From this inspection, LWG found physical damage consisting of scratches to the hard disk drive platters and damage to the read/write heads. These damages are not indicative of normal hard drive usage, but instead, were consistent with damages incurred as a result of manual manipulation.
LWG was able to supply a complete report identifying the findings and depicting the inconsistencies with this loss. At last word, LWG found that the Special Investigations Unit for the insurance carrier was contacted and completed the file. LWG’s report was all that was needed for SIU to complete their investigation successfully.