Questions answered in this file

Is a screenshot enough to preserve a social media post?

It helps, but supplement it with a saved page or PDF, the post address and the exact timestamp, and keep the original files unchanged.

Can I recover a deleted post or private messages?

Generally not. That data is held by the platform; tell the investigating agency if important content may exist only there.

How do I find a post's exact date?

Open the individual post or hover over the relative time display, and record the exact timestamp along with your own time zone.

Is it acceptable to save comments from other people?

Save only what your research needs, store it securely and avoid republishing speculation or personal details about uninvolved commenters.

How should I cite a social media post?

Give the platform, account name, post date, address and capture date, and note whether the post is still live or has changed.