Report Summary
This report provides members of the Forensic Services Committee with an overview of Digital Forensics – Next Steps and Timeline for Progression.
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Meeting
The publication discussed was referenced in the meeting below
Forensic Services Committee - 7 August 2025
Date : 07 August 2025
Location : Online
Background
The International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) is the largest publisher of quality standards in the world. ISO develop and publish standards across multiple industries. Adherence to these standards ensures that organisations around the world conform to the same management techniques, processes, controls, quality, products and services.
ISO 17025 is the international standard for testing and calibration laboratories. Accreditation determines the competence of staff, the validity and suitability of methods, the appropriateness of equipment and facilities, and the ongoing assurance through internal quality control. Essentially ensuring that DF are supported by a robust quality management system/framework and staff are appropriately trained and deemed competent in their role.
Similarly to SPA Forensics, ISO 17025 has been deemed as the most appropriate and internationally recognised framework under which DF can be assessed. It is a legal requirement for police services in England and Wales and has now been formalised as a project within Police Scotland. Achieving ISO accreditation will build trust and confidence in our provision of evidential products and services to victims and witnesses.
Police Scotland, through the Policing in a Digital World Programme, are currently undertaking a project of work to deliver staged ISO 17025 accreditation to all five of its Digital Forensics Hubs (Aberdeen, Inverness, Glasgow, Dundee and Edinburgh).
