In Windows 11 the Snipping Tool utility, with default settings, saves screenshots to the %USER%\Pictures\Screenshots directory. The output directory can be changed in the Snipping Tool settings. These PNG files use the naming convention Screenshot YYYY-MM-DD HHMMSS.png, helping to identify when they were captured, alongside the Created and Modified timestamps. This artifact can potentially provide an insight into activities conducted by the subject, such as data exfiltration via screenshots.

Sections

ID	Name	Description
ME011	Screenshots and Screen Recording	A subject can take screenshots or record their screen on a device.
PR028	On-Screen Data Collection	The subject captures or records visual data displayed on their screen, including screenshots and screen recordings to extract sensitive or proprietary information. These actions are typically performed prior to an exfiltration infringement and serve as a method of data collection. It is often used in contexts where the subject either lacks download privileges, seeks to avoid triggering detection systems, or wishes to discreetly capture transient data (e.g., internal dashboards, chat transcripts, or system output not written to disk).
AF035	Trusted Tool Misuse	The subject uses applications, binaries, scripts, services, or administrative utilities already trusted or commonly present within the organizational environment to support or conceal an infringement without introducing new software. Trusted tool misuse may involve operating system utilities, command and scripting environments, archive tools, managed browsers, synchronization clients, productivity applications, remote management components, or administrative consoles. Because these capabilities are routinely used for legitimate purposes, the subject’s activity may avoid software installation alerts, application control restrictions, and indicators associated with unfamiliar executables. The anti-forensic significance arises where the subject deliberately selects a trusted capability to reduce detection, obscure intent, or make unauthorized activity appear consistent with normal operational use. Investigators should assess the subject’s role, command-line activity, file access, timing, tool combinations, and surrounding investigative indicators. The execution of a trusted tool should not be treated as inherently suspicious. Example Behaviors Using a signed operating-system binary to execute unauthorized code while avoiding controls focused on unknown executables. Using PowerShell, Windows Command Shell, Terminal, or a Unix shell to collect, copy, encode, alter, or remove information. Using a built-in archive utility to stage sensitive files without installing external compression software. Using an approved browser, synchronization client, collaboration platform, or cloud service to transfer information through activity that resembles routine business use. Using native screenshot, clipboard, print, preview, export, or file-management functions to collect or alter information without specialist tooling. Using a trusted administrative utility or indirect execution pathway to perform unauthorized activity while reducing distinct control violations. Using scheduled tasks, launch agents, login items, shortcuts, or existing automation features to repeat activity without introducing new software.
PR028.001	Capture via Screenshot	The subject uses built-in or third-party tools to capture screenshots of sensitive data displayed on the screen. This may include financial records, source code, client information, internal chat transcripts, access credentials, or proprietary interfaces. Screenshot capture is often used as a low-friction means of data retention or transfer, especially in environments where traditional download or export functions are blocked, monitored, or leave visible artifacts.

References

https://thinkdfir.com/2025/06/13/cached-screenshots-on-windows-11/