Forensic Video Authentication
Overview
We provide forensic video authentication services in the UK, supporting criminal and civil cases through expert witness analysis of CCTV and digital recordings. Video evidence is frequently relied upon in legal proceedings but may be subject to dispute regarding its authenticity, integrity, or continuity. Video authentication involves the systematic examination of recordings to determine whether they are original, have been altered, or are otherwise unreliable. This includes the assessment of file structure, metadata, compression characteristics, and any indications of editing, with findings presented in a clear and balanced manner suitable for court.
Digital imagery authentication is commonly requested when:
imagery may have been edited or manipulated
the continuity of a recording is disputed
the integrity of a video or an image needs verification
imagery is submitted as evidence in legal proceedings
the authenticity of covert or evidential imagery is challenged
Where recordings include sound, forensic audio authentication may also be performed.
When authentication is required
The authentication of digital imagery 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 cases
Imagery authentication examines the integrity of the image or video itself, determining whether the exhibit has been altered.
Imagery enhancement focuses on improving the quality of the imagery, without making claims about whether the media has been edited.
Authentication vs enhancement
Our examinations may include:
analysis of waveform continuity
evaluation of background noise characteristics
inspection of digital encoding artefacts
spectral and signal analysis
examination of metadata where available
Our approach
Types of recordings
We can perform authentication examinations on all video recordings, regardless of the capture method or format, including:
CCTV video recordings
Mobile phone video recordings (from all models, including iPhone, Samsung, Nokia)
Body Worn Camera video recordings (for example those worn by Police or Bailiffs)
Social media video recordings
Vehicle Dash Camera video 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 imagery analysis is supported by research presented at international conferences, and advanced academic qualifications, including degrees in Audio Engineering and Media Forensics. Ongoing doctoral research in 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.
If you require forensic examination of an audio recording, please contact us to discuss the material and the questions requiring analysis.
Call: 0121 481 2981
Email: contact@verdenforensics.com