Archiving Cases

Once a case review has been completed, archiving a finished Intella case is important for long-term storage, future reference, and data integrity. This article will cover the recommended steps based on Vound’s best practices, including how to back up your case, retain the necessary files, and ensure it can be reopened in the future if required.  

1. Back Up the Case Folder
Copy the entire case folder (including all subfolders and files) to a secure backup location, such as an external hard drive, network storage, or other reliable media. Make sure to include any original evidence files if they are not cached in the case folder. If you used the “Cache original evidence files” option during indexing, your case folder is self-contained. If not, you should also back up the original evidence files from their source location.

2. Document Case Details
Keep a record of:
The Intella version used to create and process the case. Any passwords, encryption keys, or special instructions needed to access the case. Notes about the case, such as data sources, processing steps, and any issues encountered.

3. (Optional) Export as Intella Case File (.icf)
If you want a single archive file, you can use Intella’s export feature to create an Intella Case File (.icf). This is especially useful for transferring or importing the case into Intella Connect or Investigator later. To do this, use the Export function in the Case Manager and select the appropriate options.

4. Archive the Intella Installer
For long-term accessibility, archive the Intella installer (the version used for the case) along with your case data. This ensures you can open the case in the future, even if Intella’s format changes.

5. Verify the Backup
After copying, verify that the backup is complete and the case can be opened from the backup location.

Following these steps will help ensure your completed Intella cases are stored safely and can be accessed again if needed. Keeping a copy of the case folder, documenting important case details, and saving the appropriate Intella installer version will make it easier to reopen and continue working with the case in the future.  

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