A Secure Blockchain-Based Framework for Digital Evidence Preservation and Verification Using IPFS

The increasing dependence on digital evidence within investigative and judicial processes necessitates robust mechanisms for preserving authenticity, integrity, and accountability. Traditional centralized evidence management systems often face challenges related to unauthorized access, data manipulation, limited transparency, and single-point failures. These limitations can compromise the credibility and admissibility of digital evidence. This research presented a Blockchain-Based Evidence Preservation Framework that integrates Ethereum blockchain technology with the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS) to establish a secure and decentralized evidence management environment. The proposed framework records evidence metadata and transaction histories on the blockchain while storing actual evidence files within IPFS. Through the use of cryptographic hashing and smart contracts, the system provides tamper-resistant storage, transparent audit trails, and verifiable chain-of-custody records. The implementation demonstrates that combining blockchain and decentralized storage technologies can significantly enhance the security and reliability of digital evidence preservation. The framework successfully eliminates dependence on centralized repositories while ensuring evidence integrity throughout its lifecycle. Furthermore, role-based access mechanisms and transaction transparency strengthen accountability among stakeholders involved in evidence handling. The obtained results indicate that the proposed approach offers a practical and scalable solution for modern forensic environments. The framework can support law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, judicial institutions, and other organizations requiring secure digital record preservation. Overall, the research validates the effectiveness of blockchain-enabled evidence management and highlights its potential for transforming digital forensic practices in future investigative ecosystems.

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