What is the first action a technician should take upon discovering sensitive or illegal material?

Upon discovering sensitive or illegal material, the appropriate course of action is to contact the authorities immediately. This step is crucial because it ensures that the situation is handled by trained professionals who have the authority and expertise to manage such material properly. Engaging the right authorities helps to preserve the integrity of the investigation and may prevent potential legal complications.

Taking immediate action by notifying appropriate authorities also safeguards evidence and establishes a chain of custody, which is important for any subsequent investigation or prosecution. This step is not only about legal compliance but also about ensuring that the situation is managed in a way that protects all parties involved.

In contrast, actions such as concealing findings, taking personal possession, or conducting personal research on the legality of the materials present significant risks. Concealing evidence can obstruct justice, taking items personally can compromise evidence and chain of custody, and researching legality independently may lead to misinterpretation or inappropriate actions that further complicate the situation. Overall, notifying authorities is the best practice in situations involving sensitive or illegal materials.