What should be done if evidence may be altered during analysis?

When evidence may be altered during analysis, the appropriate course of action is to inform the client and seek permission before proceeding. This approach aligns with ethical standards and legal requirements in handling evidence. It ensures that all parties are aware of the potential risks involved in the analysis process, and it provides an opportunity to discuss and potentially implement measures to mitigate those risks.

Seeking permission is particularly important because it respects the chain of custody and the rights of the involved parties. By openly communicating with the client, the analyst can help maintain trust and demonstrate professionalism. It also allows for thorough documentation of the risks and the client's acknowledgment of those risks, which is crucial for legal and procedural integrity.

Proceeding with the analysis regardless could compromise the integrity of the evidence and lead to legal repercussions. Merely documenting the risks without action does not address the need for client consent and proactive management of the evidence. Notifying law enforcement only might also be inappropriate unless there are specific legal obligations to do so under certain circumstances. Thus, informing the client and seeking permission is the best practice in such situations.