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Digital evidence and electronic records

Examples of electronic records, source details and questions about preservation. Requirements depend on the record and the matter.

Four checks for a digital record

  1. 01
    Source

    Which device or system made it?

  2. 02
    Copy

    How was this version obtained?

  3. 03
    Context

    What came before or after it?

  4. 04
    Authority

    Was it accessed lawfully?

01

Examples of electronic records

Records for study may include:

  • Emails
  • Text and messaging records
  • Call records
  • Bank statements and transaction references
  • Device and system records
  • Digital photographs and video
  • Web pages and social-media records
  • Electronic documents and metadata
02

Keep the source and context

Record where a file came from, when it was obtained and who handled it. Note any changes made to a working copy.

03

Check the legal requirements

The Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 and electronic records are study topics. Check current primary sources and the facts before making a legal statement.

04

Use only authorised material

Do not access accounts, devices, communications or private information without lawful authority. Use simulated or authorised records for demonstrations.