Forensic Audio Authentication

Overview

We provide forensic audio authentication services in the UK, supporting criminal and civil cases through expert witness analysis. Digital audio recordings are frequently relied upon as evidence but may be subject to dispute regarding their authenticity, integrity, or continuity. Audio authentication involves the scientific examination of recordings to determine whether they are original, have been altered, or are otherwise unreliable. This includes the assessment of file structure, metadata, signal characteristics, and any indications of editing, with findings presented in a clear and balanced manner suitable for court.

Authentication vs enhancement

Audio authentication examines the integrity of the recording itself, determining whether the recording has been altered.

Audio enhancement focuses on improving the quality of the recording, without making claims about whether the recording has been edited.

Types of cases

The authentication of digital audio is undertaken across all sectors, including use in criminal proceedings (Crown Court and Magistrates’ Court), civil litigation, and family court matters.

In accordance with our duty to the court, we act independently of the instructing party and accept instructions from both prosecution and defence. Work can be undertaken at rates consistent with those set by the Legal Aid Agency, where applicable.

Types of recordings

We have experience in the authentication of audio recordings from a wide range of devices, including, but not limited to:

• Mobile phone calls

• Call Centre recordings (for example, from telesales or insurance companies)

• 999 call recordings

• Mobile phone recordings (for example using iPhone Voice Memos)

• Dictaphone recordings

• Portable recorders

• Body Worn Camera recordings

• CCTV camera audio

• Undercover recordings

Manipulations addressed

As we use a variety of techniques, each devised to identify a different trace left by the audio editing process, we evaluate a variety of potential manipulations, including:

• Deleted sections / Removal of sections

• Cloned sections

• Replaced sections

• Trimmed recordings

• Recordings purported to be from a different device

Expertise and validation

Expertise in forensic audio analysis is supported by peer-reviewed and published research, presentations at international conferences, and advanced academic qualifications, including degrees in Audio Engineering and Media Forensics. Ongoing doctoral research in audio authentication further underpins the scientific basis of this work.

All experts have undertaken formal training in report writing and courtroom presentation, ensuring that both written and oral evidence are delivered in a clear, structured, and professional manner appropriate to the legal context in which they are used.

Techniques are subject to validation and verification procedures in accordance with established best practice, forming part of ongoing work towards accreditation to the ISO 17025 standard and compliance with the Forensic Science Regulator’s Code of Practice.