How should dumb phones be preserved as evidence?

The preservation of dumb phones, or basic mobile phones that lack advanced features, as evidence requires careful adherence to protocols to ensure that the data on the device is not altered or corrupted. The correct approach is to power off the device and remove the battery if applicable. This step is crucial because keeping the phone powered on could lead to changes in the data, such as updates, notifications, or any automatic syncing processes that may alter information relevant to the investigation.

Once the phone is powered off and the battery is removed (if possible), placing it in an evidence bag helps to protect it from damage and contamination. It is essential also to document the chain of custody meticulously. This documentation includes every person who handles the evidence, the time and place of handling, and any actions taken with the device. This ensures the integrity of the evidence and maintains its admissibility in court.

In contrast, leaving the phone powered on can risk altering the data, and simply taking pictures of the screen does not provide a complete record of all potential evidence stored on the device. Connecting the phone to a computer for data extraction might change the state of the data and is typically a step that should be performed under controlled conditions after the initial preservation methods have been executed. Thus, the method of