What is chain of custody in digital forensics?

The chain of custody in digital forensics refers to the process of maintaining and documenting the handling of digital evidence from the time it is collected until it is presented in court. It ensures that the evidence remains intact, unaltered, and credible throughout its lifecycle.

### Key Elements:

1. **Documentation**: Detailed records are kept of every person who handles or accesses the evidence, including dates, times, and actions taken.

2. **Preservation**: Evidence must be handled carefully to prevent any alteration or corruption. This includes using write blockers and secure storage methods.

3. **Transfer**: Each transfer of evidence between individuals or locations is documented to maintain a clear history of its movement and handling.

4. **Integrity**: Measures are taken to ensure that the evidence remains unchanged during its custody, often verified through hashing techniques.

5. **Accountability**: Individuals involved in the handling of evidence are accountable for their actions, and any discrepancies or breaches in the chain can undermine the admissibility of the evidence in court.

Maintaining a clear and documented chain of custody is crucial for ensuring that digital evidence is reliable and can be legally admissible in judicial proceedings.