Crime leaves digital traces that can serve as evidence in court proceedings; often it will be the only lead law enforcement authorities and prosecutors can collect. Therefore, effective mechanisms to obtain digital evidence are of the essence. However, present-day solutions too often prove unsatisfactory, bringing investigations to a halt.

To make it easier and faster for law enforcement and judicial authorities to obtain the electronic evidence they need to investigate and eventually prosecute criminals and terrorists, the Commission proposed on 17 April 2018 new rules in the form of a Regulationand a Directive.

In addition to the legislative proposals, the Commission continues to work on the implementation of the practical measures, such as supporting cooperation with service providers and US authorities, in particular through capacity building, as well as the establishment of a secure platform for the swift exchange of requests within the EU.

Check out the latest facts & figures on facilitating access to e-evidence.

Source: European Commission