Episode 6: Data Preservation, Collection and Transfer

The sixth episode of our Global Investigations Podcast Series sees Claudia Van Gruisen (Senior Associate, Investigations, Enforcement and Compliance team, London) discussing the preservation, collection and transfer of data in investigations with Andrew Reeves (Partner, Investigations, Enforcement and Compliance team, London), Stephen Nattrass (Head of Regulations and Investigations, Canada) and Rita Nader-Guéroult (Counsel, Investigations and Business Ethics Team, Paris). We discuss key considerations, potential pitfalls and practical tips for managing data in investigations. 

Key takeaways from the discussion include:

1. Data sources are becoming more and more complex: this creates challenges for companies when preserving and collecting data. Companies need to ensure that they have a comprehensive understanding of their data universe and have addressed all potential sources of data when starting an investigation.
2. Document the steps you have taken: right from the start of an investigation, document the preservation and collection steps taken.
3. Take care with data transfer: there are a number of considerations when transferring data including data privacy and, in some jurisdictions such as France, blocking statutes may prevent the transfer of data. 

The team provide practical tips on how to navigate challenges and best prepare, so that when data preservation, collection and transfer become urgent at the start of an investigation this can be effectively managed.