Time and spectral analysis methods with machine learning for the authentication of digital audio recordings

This paper addresses the problem of tampering detection and discusses new methods that can be used for authenticity analysis of digital audio recordings. Nowadays, the only method referred to digital audio files commonly approved by forensic experts is the ENF criterion. It consists in fluctuation analysis of the mains frequency induced in electronic circuits of recording devices. Therefore, its effectiveness is strictly dependent on the presence of mains signal in the recording, which is a rare occurrence. This article presents the existing methods of time and spectral analysis along with their modifications as proposed by the author involving spectral analysis of residual signal enhanced by machine learning algorithms. The effectiveness of tampering detection methods described in this paper is tested on a predefined music database. The results are compared graphically using ROC-like curves. Furthermore, time–frequency plots are presented and enhanced by reassignment method in purpose of visual inspection of modified recordings. Using this solution, enables analysis of minimal changes of background sounds, which may indicate tampering.