Which steps are recommended for handling digital evidence from a device?

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Handling digital evidence requires preserving its integrity and traceability. The recommended approach is to preserve the original device, create a bit-for-bit forensic copy, document the chain of custody, and follow agency policy. Preserving the original ensures you have an unaltered source to refer back to. A bit-for-bit copy captures every bit of data, including hidden data, slack space, and deleted artifacts, so analysis can proceed on an exact replica without risking changes to the original. Documenting the chain of custody records who handled the evidence, when, and what actions were taken, which is essential for admissibility and accountability. Following policy ties the procedures to legal and departmental requirements, reducing the risk of challenges in court.

Deleting data after copying would alter or destroy potentially crucial information and compromise the evidence. Deleting the original after creating a copy is even more problematic, as it eliminates the only pristine source. Copying data without documenting chain of custody fails to establish provenance and accountability, making the evidence vulnerable to questions about integrity and admissibility.