Standard Operating Procedures: Digital Device Examination - Copy, Transfer, Storage And Disposal Of Data; Use Of Digital Device Examination To Examine Electronic Devices; And Supporting Material:…

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Home Affairs released standard operating procedures governing how Border Force Officers copy, transfer, store, and dispose of data extracted from digital devices during border examinations. The SOP (document BE-6198, approved 12 July 2024) establishes protocols for protecting the integrity of copied documents and electronic records while ensuring compliance with the Customs Act, Migration Act, and Maritime Powers Act. The procedure applies to copying activities by Border Force Officers using Digital Device Examination equipment, but excludes activities by Digital Forensic Investigators covered under separate SOPs. The document includes sections on copying procedures, data transfer protocols, storage security requirements, disposal methods, record-keeping obligations, and accountability frameworks. Supporting attachments detail definitions, assurance and control matrices, and consultation documentation. The procedures aim to balance Border Force operational capacity to examine travellers' electronic devices with legislative safeguards and data protection requirements.