From Devices to the Dock: Challenges in the Legal Admissibility of IoT Evidence

The rise of Internet of Things (IoT) devices across sectors such as healthcare and energy has introduced new digital evidence with growing forensic relevance. Yet, the admissibility of such evidence in UK courts remains uncertain. This paper investigates whether IoT-derived evidence meets UK legal standards, drawing on a thematic literature review and interviews with forensic and legal professionals. Six key challenges are identified: limited expertise, inadequate tools, outdated guidelines, data volatility, courtroom complexity, and the growing role of IoT in investigations. These issues affect each stage of the forensic process, from acquisition to courtroom presentation. The paper proposes targeted solutions, including IoT-specific protocols, practitioner training, and clearer legal frameworks. To support implementation, three practical tools are introduced: a forensic readiness checklist, a barrier-response map, and a legal risk alignment table. While the research is grounded in the UK context, the insights and recommendations offer relevance for jurisdictions worldwide facing similar challenges. The findings lay the groundwork for a more consistent and robust approach to IoT evidence in legal settings.