According to surveys, what percentage of local law enforcement agencies do not have adequate capabilities to read encrypted evidence?

• A. 25%
• B. 50%
• C. 60%
• D. 75%

Answer: (B)

Reading encrypted evidence leaves a sizable capability gap for many local law enforcement agencies. Surveys indicate roughly 50 percent lack adequate means to access encrypted material. This gap arises because modern encryption often requires keys or specialized tools, and legal access depends on warrants and cooperation from service providers, all within a context of limited resources, training, and funding for forensic capabilities. So, 50 percent is the best answer because it reflects the widespread, not universal, challenge shown by the data. The other options imply a smaller or much larger share than commonly reported: 25 percent underestimates the issue, while 60 percent or 75 percent would suggest a majority facing the problem, which surveys generally do not indicate as the norm.