What should I do if the battery is running low?¶

A low battery can turn an accessible mobile device into a much harder evidential problem.

What this means¶

But connecting power is also an interaction with the device.

Before doing so, record the battery level, screen state, time, connectivity, visible applications, notifications and any attached accessories.

A computer connection may create data communication, trust prompts, logs or other changes. A suitable power-only source is generally preferable, subject to local process and specialist advice.

Keep the device under observation where practical. Charging may cause it to wake, display notifications, reconnect or change state.

Document what charger was used, when it was connected, who did it and why.

The operational takeaway is: record the device before charging, use a safe and controlled power source, avoid connecting it to a computer unnecessarily, and seek specialist help urgently where power loss could destroy an unlocked or live evidential opportunity.

What to check or do next¶

• If the device powers off, it may restart into a more strongly encrypted state. An unlocked screen, active session or decrypted storage opportunity may be lost.
• Use appropriate charging equipment where available. Damaged, wet, swollen or overheating devices require specialist handling because safety comes first.
• Do not connect the phone to an ordinary computer simply to charge it.
• If the device is unlocked, low power should be treated as urgent. Seek specialist support quickly so that power can be maintained without unnecessary interaction and the live state can be preserved.
• If the device is already off, do not automatically power it on merely because a charger is available. Starting it may alter data or trigger connections.