Digital forensics has changed how the authorities solve crimes. Its demand is increasing rapidly, and the industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.97% by 2027. While it may offer many opportunities to solve and prevent crimes, digital data is vulnerable to cyber threats. Besides threats, analysts and investigators may also unintentionally tamper with (or alter) the evidence, making it inadmissible in court.
Managing digital evidence is different from physical evidence and requires careful handling. As leading digital forensics experts in Florida, we have prepared this guide to help you preserve digital evidence the right way.
Use Drive Imaging to Preserve the Original File
Before analyzing the evidence, investigators or analysts should image it first to preserve its original condition. Drive imaging involves creating a bit-for-bit replica of the original evidence file. Then you can use this duplicate file for analysis and keep the original version safe. It’s important to limit actions performed on the original file—otherwise, the court won’t accept the evidence for legal proceedings.
Take Pictures of the Device Holding the Evidence
It’s a crucial step in preserving the quality of the evidence that’s often overlooked. Once you get the evidence, capture pictures/videos of the device holding it and its location.
Document things like scratches and dents (if any), nearby tools that could’ve tampered with the evidence, and overall physical condition. This will help you present concrete evidence during legal proceedings.
Maintain a Chain of Custody
The judiciary requires you to prove the evidence’s integrity which you can achieve by having a clear chain of custody. Document the details each time you transfer the evidence to another person or an agency. There should be no gaps in these records, or the evidence will be inadmissible. In some cases, the court may even take legal action. You can record a chain of custody on paper or create an authoritative digital record for more reliability.
Secure the Device and Data
You must store the data and device in a place that’s secure physically and digitally. You can use a storage box or area without leaving it unattended for physical security. And for digital protection, keep the device off Wi-Fi or other network connections. It’s possible to accidentally overwrite valuable metadata when using conventional network connections to copy files.
Work with Digital Forensic Experts
As we said, working on digital evidence requires precision, experience, and careful handling. Any mistake can end up putting you in trouble. Therefore, it’s best to let the professional analyze the evidence, so you get the most out of the data without worrying about tempering it.
At Eclipse Forensics, we offer digital forensic services, including video analysis, audio forensic authentication, image redaction, and much more. Hire our reliable and experienced forensic experts in Florida to get started.