When it comes to computers and litigation, many assumptions tend to be made, and many of these assumptions are incorrect.  Entire arguments founded on digital evidence can be disqualified if they are not carefully prepared by someone who really understands the possible meanings of digital evidence obtained.  Additionally there are many issues surrounding the identification, discovery, preservation, and presentation of digital evidence which may disqualify its credibility.

Meta data, or data about data, has long been viewed as a pursuasive component of digital evidence.  However, in evaluating the quality of arguments based on meta data, knowledge about legitimate activities that might have produced that meta data is critical.  Some evidence may seem sinister, yet may have innocent origins.  Other evidence may seem benign, despite being a critical component of the interpretation of digital evidence.