How to Improve Data Processing for Chain of Custody in Employee Separations?

It might be worth consulting with a forensic service that can provide proper tools, like hardware write blockers, to ensure you're imaging the machines correctly. Chain of custody involves more than just backing up data; you need to consider signing off on these processes too. Also, are you checking if there's actual misconduct with the terminated employees or just doing this as a precaution? That can make a difference in how you approach things.

Have you thought about using FTK Imager? It automatically generates a hash during the imaging process, which could save you a ton of time. If you're using Veeam for backups, that's a solid start, but imaging with a dedicated tool can streamline your workflow.

Backing up data is just one part of chain of custody. You should definitely use a forensic tool to create a forensic image along with generating hashes. Care needs to be taken if this data is potentially relevant for legal issues. You mentioned using PowerShell; that might not be the most efficient method.

Standard procedure typically involves imaging before returning equipment to service. If you're only applying one hash to the final image, the speed would depend on your hardware. You might want to review this, especially for smartphones; it's surprising if that's not part of your current process.