The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidelines list four different states a mobile device can be in when you extract data. Which mode is a dormant state that conserves battery life?

The correct answer is quiescent, which refers to a dormant state of a mobile device that conserves battery life. In this state, the device is not actively performing tasks but remains in a low-power mode, ready to reactivate when needed. This state is essential for extending the battery life of mobile devices, especially in situations where the device may need to be quickly accessed without fully powering it on.

The quiescent state is critical in digital forensics as it can affect how data is extracted from a device. Understanding this state allows forensic investigators to develop proper protocols for data retrieval while minimizing the risk of altering data or losing valuable information. By keeping the device in a quiescent state during data acquisition, investigators can help preserve the integrity of the evidence.

Other states, such as active and nascent, involve different levels of device engagement and power consumption, which do not align with the goal of conserving battery life. Therefore, quiescent is the most appropriate choice representing a state that conserves battery while being ready to respond to stimuli or user input.