Chain of Custody - secuguru/security-terms GitHub Wiki

In digital forensics, the chain of custody is a process that documents the handling and transfer of evidence from the moment it is collected until it is presented in court or stored securely. Maintaining a clear, documented chain of custody is crucial to preserving the integrity and admissibility of evidence, ensuring it has not been tampered with or altered.

Chain of Custody

• Definition: Chain of custody is the process of recording each step in the evidence handling process to establish who had access to the evidence and when, from initial collection through to storage and analysis.
• Purpose: It serves as a record showing that evidence has been handled properly and securely. A strong chain of custody can help prevent legal challenges to the evidence’s authenticity and reliability.

Handover Notes

• Definition: Handover notes are part of the chain of custody documentation created whenever evidence is transferred between individuals, departments, or locations. These notes detail each handoff, creating a trail that can be referenced if questions about the evidence’s integrity arise.
• Contents of Handover Notes:
  • Date and Time of Transfer: Precise date and time the evidence was handed over.
  • Description of Evidence: Unique identifiers like case number, evidence ID, or a short description of the item (e.g., “Dell laptop with serial number XYZ123”).
  • Condition of Evidence: Notation of any tamper-proof seals, intact packaging, or visible damage.
  • Names and Signatures: Full names and signatures of the individuals involved in the transfer, both the person releasing the evidence and the person receiving it.
  • Reason for Transfer: Brief explanation of why the evidence is being transferred (e.g., “For forensic analysis,” “Storage transfer”).
• Best Practices for Handover Notes:
  • Complete notes immediately at the time of handover to prevent any gaps in documentation.
  • Use consistent, secure methods of transportation and handling to ensure evidence integrity.
  • Keep handover notes and chain of custody forms with the evidence record, accessible for review if needed.

Why Chain of Custody and Handover Notes Are Essential

• Legal Admissibility: Courts require proof that evidence has been preserved and has not been altered. Any gaps in documentation can lead to questions about evidence authenticity.
• Accountability: Handover notes provide a clear record of who had access to the evidence, reducing the risk of unauthorized handling or tampering.
• Transparency: Detailed documentation reassures all parties involved in the investigation that the evidence is handled with integrity and follows best practices.

A meticulously maintained chain of custody with comprehensive handover notes builds a solid foundation for digital evidence management, helping ensure that the evidence can be used reliably in investigative and legal proceedings.