Voicing concerns: The balance between data protection principles and research developments in forensic speech science. Issue 4 (July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Brown, Georgina; Ross, Sula; Kirchhübel, Christin
• Is Part Of: Science & justice. Volume 61:Issue 4(2021)
• Page Start: 311
• Page End: 318
• Publication Date: 2021-07
• Subjects: Data protection -- Forensic speech recordings -- Data retention -- Proportionality; Forensic sciences -- Periodicals; Criminal investigation -- Periodicals; Forensic Medicine -- Periodicals; Jurisprudence -- Periodicals; Criminalistique -- Périodiques; Enquêtes criminelles -- Périodiques; Criminal investigation; Forensic sciences; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 363.2505
• DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2021.05.006
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1355-0306

Abstract

Highlights: This paper places forensic speech recordings among the data protection literature. The paper's motivation is to find ways to make casework data available for research. Current guidance is unclear as to how we can use casework recordings for research. We apply existing data protection protocols and guidance to forensic speech data. We suggest safeguards that could bring casework data into the research arena. Abstract: The status of forensic speech recordings among existing data protection guidance is not clear. The inherent nature of voice and the way in which forensic speech casework is currently allocated mean that there are additional barriers to incorporating real casework data into research activities. The key objective of this work is to explore data protection solutions that could enable the forensic speech science community to responsibly use real casework data for research and development purposes. While reviewing relevant guidance and rulings, issues such as proportionality, opportunism and data minimisation are addressed, as well as where voice sits in relation to the definition of "biometric data". This paper ultimately places forensic speech recordings in the data protection context to illuminate the specific issues that arise for this data type.