NCJ Number
212674
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 53 Issue: 12 Dated: December 2005 Pages: 60-65
Date Published
December 2005
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article describes the most common types of digital data storage technologies.
Abstract
The rapid evolution of the technology sector has resulted in an overabundance of digital storage technologies that may be exploited by criminals. Police officers investigating criminal activities need to be familiar with the different options for digital data storage so that possible evidence does not go unnoticed. In order to familiarize police officers with the most common types of digital data storage devices on the market, several types of storage technologies are described, including floppy disks, hard drives, optical discs, solid state memory cards, portable music devices, and digital tape cartridges or cassettes. Data is defined as any information that can be digitized and stored on computer equipment or other electronic storage mediums. The author notes that while the iPOD is primarily thought of as a device to store and play music, it is actually capable of storing any type of digitized data. Finally, legal aspects of digitized data are considered in terms of writing and executing search warrants to include such devices as CD Walkmans and iPODs. Exhibit