How can evidence be compromised during a forensic investigation?

Evidence can be compromised during a forensic investigation primarily through improper handling, lack of documentation, or failure to follow protocols. Each aspect is crucial in ensuring the integrity of the evidence collected.

Improper handling refers to physical interactions with the evidence that may alter, damage, or corrupt it. This could include touching items with ungloved hands, not securing items properly, or storing them in unsuitable environments, which can lead to degradation or contamination.

Lack of documentation is critically important because, in forensics, having a clear, detailed account of how evidence was collected, handled, and stored is essential for maintaining a chain of custody. Without proper records, it becomes difficult to verify the evidence's integrity and authenticity, which can lead to questions about its reliability in court.

Failure to follow established protocols can lead to a variety of issues, from using incorrect techniques in evidence collection to neglecting necessary steps that ensure the integrity of the data. Protocols are designed to maintain the accuracy and reliability of the evidence, and deviating from them can result in serious compromises.

In contrast, thorough documentation and proper handling (the first choice) support the preservation of evidence, while advanced cybersecurity measures (the third choice) and the use of outdated technology (the fourth choice) relate