MOBILE FORENSICS

Chain of Custody for Smartphones

The chain of custody refers to the comprehensive documentation of how digital evidence is handled. It ensures that it is possible at any time to trace who took charge of, transported, secured, examined or returned a smartphone, and when. A fully documented chain of custody enhances the traceability and reliability of a digital forensics investigation.

Forensic analysis
Documentation admissible in court
GDPR-compliant processing
Experienced experts

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

Technical Fundamentals

Digital evidence can be altered simply through improper handling. For this reason, the receipt, transport, storage, data backup and all stages of the examination are documented. This ensures that it can be verified that the results are based on the device that was actually examined.

OUR APPROACH

This is how your examination will be carried out

A transparent process – from the initial enquiry to the handover of the report.

1
As soon as a smartphone is received, its identifying features, external condition and the details of the case are documented. Throughout the entire examination, all relevant steps are recorded. This ensures that it is possible to trace at any time when the evidence was handled and by whom.
2
LanCologne prepares private expert reports on behalf of private individuals, companies and solicitors, as well as expert reports in connection with court-ordered investigations. Our investigations have already been used in various court proceedings. Furthermore, in some cases we have been directly commissioned to prepare IT forensic reports. Documenting the chain of custody is an integral part of our working methods.

TYPICAL QUESTIONS

When is this analysis required?

LIMITATIONS & CONCLUSION

What you should know

A complete chain of custody can only be guaranteed from the moment the device is taken over. Events prior to this, or how the device was handled before handover, can usually only be documented on the basis of available information.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

What our customers say

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★★★★★

“The highest standards of professionalism, prompt service and excellent communication. They made the seemingly impossible a reality. This is what genuine customer service is all about – unrivalled in Germany!”

idalein

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★★★★★

“Very helpful advice, excellent responsiveness and communication. My problem was completely resolved and the lost data was recovered. I’m very satisfied and, of course, relieved!”

Layla Pankratz

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★★★★★

“My problem was sorted out professionally and quickly; everyone I spoke to was always friendly, and I can still get in touch if I have any questions – I’m very grateful for that!”

a woman from Cologne

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Enquire now – free initial consultation

Do you require a clearly documented evidence preservation process with a complete chain of custody? LanCologne can assist you with a structured IT forensic approach.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

Click on a question to see the answer.

What does the chain of custody document?
All key stages and access to the evidence.
Why is it important for courts?
It improves the traceability of the handling of digital evidence.
Are data backups also documented?
Yes. The time, method and other relevant information are recorded.
Can a lack of a chain of custody cause problems?
It may make it more difficult to assess a piece of evidence and raise questions regarding its traceability.
Is the chain of custody included in the report?
Where relevant, this is described in the documentation.