Faulty mobile phone data raises concerns over convictions and trials

A major investigation has been launched by the Home Office after faulty mobile phone data is believed to have been used as evidence in criminal cases for over a year. O2 informed police chiefs about concerns regarding the accuracy of information it was providing to forces, potentially leading to challenged convictions and delayed trials. The bug relates to a phone’s unique International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number, which could result in incorrect information presented to juries about calls made or received by defendants. Location data, used to determine the accused person’s whereabouts during a crime, may also be impacted. The Home Office is working with relevant organisations to address the issue.