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Citation[]

Association of Chief Police Officers (United Kingdom), Good Practice Guide for Computer-Based Electronic Evidence (Ver. 4) (full-text).

Overview[]

With ever-increasing numbers of digital seizures and constantly developing technology, these guidelines are essential to informing the collection and preservation of this most fragile form of evidence. Previous versions of this document have set vital standards for law enforcement and corporate investigators alike, which should continue with this and future revisions of the document.

The continuing fast paced evolution of both hardware and software makes it essential to develop best practice in line with the technical challenges which law enforcement faces when capturing digital evidence, in order to prevent its contamination or loss. This latest revision has been not only timely, but also essential, in order that law enforcement practices are fit for purpose when considering recent and upcoming advances in every day technology.

Historically, the impact of e-crime or computer-related crime has involved only a small proportion of victims and investigators. However, this position is changing and the impact of digital evidence within "conventional" investigations is already widespread. Indeed, any investigation within the public or private arena is likely to involve the seizure, preservation and examination of electronic evidence, therefore a digital evidence strategy must form an integral part of the wider investigative process.

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