A Framework for Redacting Digital Information from Electronic Devices

A reliable method for the removal of selected information from digital devices remains an open problem. A solution is particularly necessary for the legal profession, where it is required to produce information to opposing counsel during the discovery portion of court proceedings. The method outlined in this paper provides an efficient and effective system for redacting digital information beyond recovery by conventional forensic techniques. This paper also describes the major obstacles to achieving practical and comprehensive redaction of digital information from electronic devices. Of particular issue is the lack of a rational process for systematically handling encoded, encrypted, or otherwise complex data objects. Applications for this method extend well beyond the courtroom-it can be used in government and business to remove classified and proprietary information from documents and records.