NCJ Number
213193
Journal
Police: The Law Enforcement Magazine Volume: 30 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2006 Pages: 32,33,34
Date Published
January 2006
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article presents a description and evaluation of the Lexar LockTight system for securing the integrity of digital images.
Abstract
Overall, the Lexar LockTight system is recommended by the author as effective and easy to use, with a moderate price tag and minimal workflow impact. As law enforcement agencies make the transition to digital photography for crime scene investigation, they are increasingly concerned about the admissibility of digital images in a court of law. While digital images are accepted in court, it is important to prove to the court that the images were not altered. Happily, many digital photography companies are familiar with law enforcement’s need to ensure and prove the integrity of digital images. In order to assist in this process, Lexar developed the LockTight system that provides card-level access control to guarantee image integrity. The author explains that the LockTight system uses a 160-bit HMAC encryption algorithm to ensure the system is secured. To access a digital image, an authorization process occurs between the LockTight card and either the camera or the computer that is accessing the card. The image is accessed by entering an approved user name and password, which unlocks the memory card. The author walks the reader through the process of using the system, which he describes as intuitive and easy to use. Exhibits