A Practical Guide to Digital Communications Evidence in Criminal Law

Technology has changed the way we communicate with each other, for better or for worse. The result is that most criminal investigations now involve some aspect of communications evidence – be it mobile devices seized from defendants, call data obtained from telephone companies, or records taken from social media providers.

This book is aimed at practitioners looking to understand the most common types of digital communications evidence used in criminal prosecutions. From cell site mapping through to mobile phone downloads, each category of evidence is explained and the key terminology and relevant law is all set out. The uses and misuses of the material are examined, and there is a focus on how best the evidence can be presented or challenged before a jury.

Topics covered include:

• Mobile Telephone Downloads
• SIM Card Extraction
• Call Data Records
• Cell Site Evidence
• Encrypted Messaging Apps
• Email and Social Media
• Notices and Warrants
• Disclosure