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    Digital Forensics Field Procedures

    Transport and Vehicle Storage

    Why a sealed bag in a hot vehicle is still a risk — temperature, battery state and interim storage between scene and custody.

    Quick Answer

    A sealed phone in a 40°C vehicle boot will deplete its battery faster, risk thermal shutdown and degrade its lock state. Use shaded, climate-stable storage where possible.

    Heat and Battery State

    A sealed phone in a 40°C vehicle boot will deplete its battery faster, risk thermal shutdown and degrade its lock state. Use shaded, climate-stable storage where possible.

    Multi-Device Transport

    Each device in its own bag — never combine seized exhibits in one bag for convenience. Cross-contamination of fingerprints, DNA and digital state all become defence ammunition.

    Vehicle Holding Areas

    Designate a specific shielded compartment for evidence transit. Avoid co-locating with active radios, MDTs or ANPR equipment that could (in failure cases) produce strong fields.

    Long-Distance Transfers

    For inter-force or to-lab transfers, use rigid Faraday transport cases with foam inserts, sealed and signed for at handover. Continuous documented custody is non-negotiable.

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