What is a fundamental requirement for the admissibility of digital evidence in court?

A fundamental requirement for the admissibility of digital evidence in court is that the evidence must be properly documented. This documentation process is crucial because it establishes the chain of custody, ensuring that the evidence has been handled in a way that maintains its integrity and reliability. Proper documentation includes detailed records of how the evidence was collected, who handled it, and how it was stored, which helps to validate the authenticity of the evidence presented in court.

Proper documentation ensures that the evidence can be traced back to its original source, mitigating the risk of tampering or contamination. This is essential for demonstrating that the evidence is both relevant and credible, thereby meeting the standards required for admissibility in legal proceedings. By contrast, the other options focus on aspects that do not universally apply to the admissibility of digital evidence. For instance, while uniqueness or recency might impact the perceived value of evidence, they are not strict requirements for admissibility. Moreover, the method of obtaining evidence, including whether consent was given, falls under legal and ethical guidelines rather than a straightforward requirement for admissibility.