Secure Electronic Evidence Transfer via Browser Encryption
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in law enforcement is ensuring the integrity and authenticity of electronic evidence collected from the public, as the transfer of data files from smartphones and other devices to authorities can be vulnerable to tampering, complicating the chain of custody and reliability of the evidence.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves using secure encryption methods, such as those described in co-pending patent applications, to encrypt media files on devices like cameras, allowing them to be transferred to secure storage without exposure to tampering, and utilizing web browsers or evidence transfer apps to facilitate this process without requiring additional software installations, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access the encrypted files.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If media files are transferred from smartphones and devices to authorities without encryption, then the transfer process is simple and quick, but the files are vulnerable to tampering and the chain of custody is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs encryption of media files before transfer to authorities. The encryption process is initiated in advance during the upload process, so that by the time the file reaches the server, it is already protected. This preliminary encryption action ensures integrity without requiring complex post-transfer verification procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary encryption layer and hash verification mechanism between the user and the server. The hash of the original file is computed and stored, serving as an intermediary reference to verify that the transferred file has not been tampered with. This intermediary verification system maintains reliability while keeping the interface simple for users.
2Reliability
If encryption is applied to media files during transfer, then tampering is prevented and chain of custody is maintained, but the transfer process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The encryption and hash computation processes are performed continuously during the file upload process rather than as separate steps. As the file is being transferred, it is simultaneously encrypted and hashed, maintaining continuous protection without interrupting the transfer flow. This eliminates idle time between upload and encryption verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-verification through automatic hash comparison. Once the file is uploaded and encrypted, the system automatically computes the hash of the received file and compares it with the stored hash of the original file. This self-service verification eliminates the need for manual authentication steps, reducing time loss while maintaining authenticity.
3Reliability
If additional software or apps are required for evidence transfer, then secure encryption can be implemented, but the ease of public submission is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the web browser itself multi-functional by enabling it to perform encryption and hash verification operations natively. The browser serves both as the interface for file selection and upload, and as the encryption engine. This universal approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated evidence submission apps while maintaining security, allowing citizens to use their existing browsers for secure evidence submission.
Solution Approach 2:
The browser performs self-encryption using its own computational resources and built-in cryptographic capabilities. Rather than requiring external software to encrypt the files, the browser itself generates encryption keys, encrypts the media files, and computes verification hashes. This self-service capability maintains security requirements while preserving the simplicity of using standard web browsers for submission.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for transferring electronic evidence is provided. The law enforcement agencies can make efficient use of social media and other forms of public communications to make a public appeal for information on crimes and other investigations wherein the public appeals allow members of the public to easily submit information and/or media files from smartphones and other computers in a way that allows the submission to be linked to the public appeal (e.g. the specific case file or the attributes of the case file) so that the submission data can be found and accessed by law enforcement investigators.