What is a key characteristic of digital evidence?

A key characteristic of digital evidence is that it can be easily manipulated without detection. This is due to the nature of digital data, which exists in binary form and can be altered using various software tools without leaving obvious traces. Digital evidence is often found in a variety of formats and can be duplicated effortlessly, which adds to the complexity of ensuring its integrity.

The ability to change digital information without detection emphasizes the need for proper handling, collection, and preservation protocols to maintain the reliability and authenticity of the evidence. This manipulation can occur on computers, networks, or devices, making it crucial for forensic investigators to use robust methods for verification and to establish a chain of custody.

Other characteristics, such as permanence, decentralization, and physical form, present limitations or do not apply uniformly to all types of digital evidence. For instance, while some digital data may be stored in a decentralized manner across networks or cloud services, this is not universally true. Additionally, digital evidence typically lacks a physical form that can be touched, distinguishing it further from traditional physical evidence.