WDH-096 Websites, Domains & Internet Infrastructure
What can and can’t a website prove?¶
A website can prove what was displayed when it was captured and generate strong investigative leads. It usually cannot prove authorship, operation, control or personal responsibility by itself.
Evidence to consider¶
- domain, URL and visible content;
- claims, contact details and payment instructions;
- links to accounts and services;
- products or services offered;
- potential admissions or representations;
- registrar, host, platform and payment leads;
- capture date, time and context.
Keep the conclusion precise¶
Accounts, IP addresses, devices and provider records may identify a technical or contractual relationship without identifying the individual responsible. Test shared access, delegated administration, automation, compromise and changes over time.
Key takeaway
Use the page as evidence of display and as a route to wider records. Attribute people and actions through independent corroboration.