I, for instance, have considerable reservations about the idea of the electronic storage of all forms of communication, with data retention by the government.

In one study, data retention was observed even at room temperature.

Different techniques have evolved over time to balance data retention and restoration needs with the cost of extra data storage media.

It concluded that data retention was a valuable tool for ensuring criminal justice and public protection, but that it had achieved only limited harmonisation.

Where possible, as well as describing expected lifetimes, factors affecting data retention will be detailed including potential technology issues.