A global survey of over 2,000 LE professionals highlights AI’s transformative impact on digital investigations, uncovering its potential to enhance efficiency and accuracy
By Police 1 Staff | Photo by Khanchit Khirisutchalual/Getty Images
In a comprehensive survey involving over 2,000 law enforcement professionals from 97 countries, Cellebrite’s 2025 Industry Trends Survey reveals the profound impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on digital investigations. The study underscores both the opportunities and challenges that AI introduces to the field.
The survey found that over half of respondents hold a positive or very positive perception of AI, with 61% considering it a valuable asset in digital forensics and investigations. Resondents expressed confidence in AI’s ability to boost efficiency and accuracy while uncovering hidden evidence, greatly enhancing the investigative process.
Key observations from the survey include:
- Increase in AI-related crimes: 3 in 10 respondents have encountered more AI-related crimes
- Limited implementation: 60% think AI technology will be limited by regulations and procedures
- Implications: 51% are concerned about the implications of and potential regulations that may limit implementation of AI
- Improved investigations: 79% agree that AI contributes to more effective investigations and makes their job easier
- Reduced crime: 64% believe AI can help reduce crime
- AI uptake in investigations: With the generally positive view of AI, 51% state their agency plans to implement AI technology in investigations in the next two years
- Job security confidence: 16% of respondents are concerned that AI can replace their job
The widespread use of digital devices has caused a dramatic surge in the volume of data involved in digital investigations, making it unfeasible for examiners to manually review all evidence in a timely manner. Nine out of ten respondents believe AI has the potential to significantly enhance digital investigations. Approximately 90% agree that AI can improve pattern recognition and anomaly detection in digital evidence. Furthermore, 86% say AI can accelerate data analysis, enabling investigators to identify critical evidence more quickly.
Additionally, 82% of respondents highlight AI’s ability to automate repetitive tasks such as data acquisition, hashing, keyword searching, and report generation, freeing up valuable time for investigators to focus on complex aspects of their cases. Around 60% also note that AI can help prioritize evidence and minimize human error, further streamlining investigative processes.
When survey respondents were asked about the most valuable features in AI tools for digital forensics and investigations, their insights revealed clear priorities:
- 78% identified content classification and prioritization as the most valuable functionality.
- Approximately 70% highlighted the importance of automated device extraction and the ability to identify potential leads and suspects.
- Over 50% emphasized the value of generating investigative reports and automating administrative intake forms.
The survey reveals a positive perception of AI among law enforcement professionals:
- 61% view AI as a valuable tool for digital forensics and investigations.
- 79% believe AI enhances the effectiveness of investigations and simplifies their tasks.
- 64% are confident that AI can play a role in reducing crime rates.
These findings reflect a growing confidence in AI’s potential to improve investigative processes. However, the survey also brings to light notable concerns:
- 60% foresee challenges due to regulatory limitations and procedural restrictions.
- 51% express concerns about potential regulations hindering AI implementation.
- 16% worry about job security, fearing that AI could replace human roles.
This blend of optimism and apprehension highlights both the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI into law enforcement practices.
For a more detailed exploration of these findings, Cellebrite plans to release the complete 2025 Industry Trends Survey Whitepaper early next year. This forthcoming publication will provide comprehensive insights into the latest trends and developments in digital forensics.
