CRIMINALISTIC ASPECTS OF THE INFORMATIONAL AND INVESTIGATIVE POTENTIAL OF DIGITAL TRACES GENERATED BY VEHICLES
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.67457/lv26.2.02Keywords:
digital traces, criminalistics, criminal investigation, connected vehicles, vehicle electronic systems, trace examination, event reconstruction, telematics systemsAbstract
he examination of digital traces generated by vehicles represents a field situated at the intersection of criminalistics, information technologies, and automotive engineering. The development of modern vehicles equipped with navigation systems, wireless communications, electronic control units, and numerous sensors has led to the emergence of new categories of digital traces that may be exploited in criminal proceedings. These systems generate and preserve information concerning travel routes, vehicle location, technical operating parameters, communication history, and other data resulting from the use of integrated electronic systems.
From a criminalistic perspective, the primary focus of the investigation is not the mere existence of such data, but rather their capacity to reflect activities and circumstances relevant to the case under examination. Consequently, the examination of digital traces involves the identification, extraction, preservation, analysis, and interpretation of information obtained from the vehicle’s electronic systems, while ensuring data integrity and documenting all investigative procedures performed.
The use of specialized software and equipment enables the extraction of information from various electronic components of the vehicle and contributes to the reconstruction of road traffic accidents, the investigation of vehicle thefts, and other criminal offenses in which the vehicle has been used either as an instrument or as an object of criminal activity.
The continuous development of electronic systems and communications between vehicles and external information systems leads to the constant expansion of the categories of digital traces available for forensic examination. At the same time, it necessitates the development of standardized methods for the identification, preservation, and interpretation of such information, so that it may be utilized in accordance with scientific rigor and procedural requirements.
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