Understanding Digital Evidence

Digital evidence encompasses any information stored or transmitted in digital form that may be relevant to an investigation. Unlike physical evidence, digital evidence is fragile, easily altered, and often volatile. Understanding its characteristics is essential for proper handling:

Characteristics of Digital Evidence:

Volatility: Some evidence exists only in memory and disappears when power is lost
Volume: Modern systems generate vast amounts of potential evidence
Complexity: Evidence may be encrypted, compressed, or obfuscated
Fragility: Simple actions can alter or destroy evidence
Replicability: Exact copies can be made without degrading the original
Latency: Deleted data may be recoverable
Anonymity: Attribution can be challenging