Social Media: Reasonable Lines of Enquiry
Plain-English digest of CPS prosecution guidance.
AI-generated summary — not verbatim. This is a plain-English digest, not the official CPS text. It may omit detail or fall out of date. Do not rely on it for a charging decision — read the full guidance on cps.gov.uk and check the current legislation.
This prosecution guidance assists prosecutors in understanding how to obtain digital material from devices and social media platforms while balancing privacy concerns. It outlines reasonable lines of inquiry, the examination of digital devices, and the legal framework governing these processes. Key considerations include the necessity of accessing personal data, methods of data extraction, and communication with complainants regarding the use of their digital information.
Key points
- Digital material must be handled according to established principles.
- Investigators need a valid reason to access a witness's digital material.
- Minimize intrusion into personal life during inquiries.
- Consider alternative ways to obtain necessary communications without device surrender.
- Keep complainants informed about the use of their devices.
- Access denial by witnesses should be carefully evaluated.
Public-interest factors
- Safeguarding privacy of complainants
- Balancing criminal investigation needs with individual rights
- Ensuring fair trial rights are respected
- Promoting transparency in the prosecution process
This is a factual digest of guidance published by the Crown Prosecution Service. Digested 2026-07-15. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the CPS.