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If you suspect evidence is being tampered with, start keeping your own independent records immediately.
Altering Messages & Evidence
Someone edits, deletes, or fabricates digital messages and evidence — changing what was said in text conversations, deleting messages to change the narrative, or creating fake screenshots.
What You Might Notice
Conversations look different from how you remember them
Messages appear edited, missing, or rearranged.
The other person shows 'evidence' of things you didn't say
Screenshots or messages that don't match your memory or records.
Messages in shared conversations have been selectively deleted
Key context is missing from threads.
What You Can Do
Keep your own copies of important conversations
Screenshot, export, or back up conversations regularly to a location only you control.
Use platforms with edit history or deletion tracking
Some apps show when messages have been edited or deleted.
Don't rely solely on digital records the other person can access
Keep physical notes or voice memos as backup records.
Important: This resource provides general information, not personal advice. Every situation is different. The actions suggested here may not be safe in your specific circumstances — particularly if the person causing harm could notice changes to your devices or accounts. Always consider your physical safety first.
If you need personalised support, contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or your local specialist domestic violence service. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
Editing, deleting, selectively screenshotting, or fabricating screenshots of conversations, messages, or digital records to misrepresent what was communicated. Used to create false evidence, destroy exculpatory evidence, or support false narratives in legal proceedings and social contexts.
Original Record Preservation Preserve original communications using platform export tools with metadata.
SAFE-M-0090
Metadata Verification Use platform records with headers and metadata rather than screenshots for evidence.
SAFE-M-0091
Witness Communication Include trusted witness in important communications for corroboration.
Detection Indicators
ID
Detection Indicator
SAFE-D-0081
Evidence Discrepancies Adversary-presented records don't match target's records of same communication.
SAFE-D-0082
Message Alteration Messages deleted or content changed from what target recalls.
The TFA Matrix is a research framework under active development. Technique classifications, detection methods, and mitigations reflect current understanding and are subject to revision. This framework does not constitute forensic methodology, legal evidence standards, or clinical diagnostic criteria. Practitioners should apply professional judgement appropriate to their discipline and jurisdiction.