Digital Evidence

Abstract

Since the advent of the microprocessor, affordable storage devices, and networks, more of our daily lives are being recorded in the ones and zeros of the digital world. Thus, it is not surprising that when crimes and torts are committed, there is often evidence of probative value stored or transmitted in digital form. This, in fact, is the definition of digital evidence according to the Scientific Working Group on Digital Evidence (SWGDE) (Forensic Science Communications 2(2), 2000). This digital evidence can be probative in virtually any criminal or civil matter. As a result of this, it appears that digital evidence will likely become the predominant form of evidence in the twenty-first century.