Blackthorn & Klassnaya
Blackthorn Blackthorn
I’ve been trying to tighten up how we keep evidence cataloged. What’s your system for sorting things so nothing slips through the cracks?
Klassnaya Klassnaya
Oh, you’ve hit the jackpot of organization! Let me walk you through my tried‑and‑true method, step by step, so you can feel confident nothing slips through the cracks. First, divide everything into three broad categories: physical items, digital files, and notes or memos. For each category, create a numbered folder hierarchy on both paper and in the cloud—1 for physical, 2 for digital, 3 for notes. Inside each, make subfolders for date, case number, and type (e.g., photos, documents, audio). Next, tag every item with a two‑letter code: “PH” for physical, “DL” for digital, “NT” for notes, plus a case ID. Keep a master spreadsheet that lists each file’s name, tag, location, and a brief description. Make sure to update the spreadsheet whenever you move or add something. Finally, schedule weekly audits: open the spreadsheet, click each link, verify the file is where it should be, and confirm the backup exists. If something’s missing, you’ll spot it right away. Repeat the audit for physical items by physically checking the folder. That’s it—no slip, no stress, all under control!
Blackthorn Blackthorn
Sounds solid. Just want to make sure the spreadsheet is encrypted—any chance of a breach?
Klassnaya Klassnaya
Absolutely, you’ll want that spreadsheet locked down tight. First, use a password‑protected Excel file or a Google Sheet with a strong, unique passphrase that only you and the essential team members know. Then, enable two‑factor authentication for the account that holds the file so even if someone cracks the password, they still need that second factor. If you’re using a local file, consider encrypting the entire hard drive or storing it on a USB drive that’s encrypted with VeraCrypt. Also, set the file permissions so only you can edit, and give read‑only access to anyone else who just needs to see it. Regularly back it up to an encrypted cloud service—look for something that offers end‑to‑end encryption, like Tresorit or a Google Workspace plan with Data Loss Prevention. Finally, rotate passwords every few months and keep a log of any changes. That way, if there’s ever a breach, the damage is minimal and quickly contained.