Practical guidance on how to document violence safely: screenshots, dates, witness statements, and secure storage. For survivors, refugees, and NGOs.

Reporting Violence Safely: How to Collect Evidence Without Increasing Risk

For people who have experienced violence, harassment, or threats, the idea of “reporting” can feel overwhelming or unsafe. Fear of retaliation, lack of trust in systems, language barriers, or past trauma often prevent people from taking action.

At the same time, safe documentation can be a powerful form of protection. Collecting evidence does not mean filing a police report immediately. It means preserving options, strengthening safety, and keeping control over your own story.

This article explains how to collect and store evidence safely — step by step — with a focus on minimizing risk and respecting personal boundaries.

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Why Safe Documentation Matters

Evidence plays a crucial role in many situations: asylum procedures, legal consultations, complaints about discrimination, or crisis interventions. Without documentation, harmful experiences often remain invisible.

Safe documentation helps to:

• establish timelines and patterns,

• support legal or asylum-related cases,

• reduce the risk of being dismissed or not believed,

• give survivors control over when and how to act.

Importantly, documenting does not require immediate disclosure or confrontation.

Step 1 — Write Down the Basic Facts

As soon as it feels possible, record the basic details of what happened:

• date,

• time,

• location (approximate is enough),

• short description of the incident.

Even brief notes written on a phone or paper can be valuable later. Accuracy matters more than detail.

Step 2 — Screenshots and Digital Evidence

If violence or threats occurred online or by phone, preserve digital traces:

• messages or emails,

• social media comments,

• threats or harassment,

• call logs.

Best practice:

• keep original files,

• avoid editing or cropping screenshots,

• save files with dates and clear names.

Digital evidence is often time-sensitive and can disappear quickly.

Step 3 — Photos, Videos, and Physical Evidence

If there are visible injuries or damaged property:

• take photos or videos as soon as possible,

• keep original files,

• do not alter images.

If physical objects are involved, store them safely if possible. Do not put yourself at additional risk to collect evidence.

Step 4 — Witness Statements

Witnesses can strengthen documentation:

• note names and contact details (if safe),

• record what the person saw or heard,

• written statements are helpful but not mandatory.

Even informal witness information can be useful later.

Step 5 — Store Evidence Securely

Safe storage is as important as collection:

• use secure cloud storage or encrypted devices,

• avoid shared or public computers,

• back up files if possible.

Consider separating evidence from daily-use devices if safety is a concern.

Checklist: Safe Evidence Collection

✔ Write down dates, times, locations✔ Save original screenshots and files✔ Avoid editing or deleting evidence✔ Document witnesses when possible✔ Store files securely✔ Ask for support if unsure

Do I have to report to the police immediately?No. Collecting evidence does not force you to report. It keeps options open.

What if I’m not sure it was “serious enough”?If it felt unsafe or threatening, it is worth documenting.

Can someone help me with this?Yes. Support organizations can assist with documentation and next steps.

Disclaimer

This article provides general information and does not replace individual legal or psychological advice.

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