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The Potential of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Forensic Science: An Overview of Key Applications, Challenges, and Future Directions

Kajol Bhati, Ganesh Agrawal, Mitali Shukla

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Attribution-Non-commercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0)

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Indian Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology 18((2 Suppl)):p 285-292, April-June 2025. | DOI: https://doi.org/10.21088/ijfmp.0974.3383.18225.23

How Cite This Article:

Agrawal G, Bhati K, Shukla M. The Potential of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Forensic Science: An Overview of Key Applications, Challenges, and Future Directions. Indian J Forensic Med Pathol. 2025;18(2 Suppl):225-232.

Timeline

Received : June 25, 2024         Accepted : June 14, 2025          Published : June 30, 2025

Abstract

Forensic science has evolved significantly in recent years with the integration of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI). The use of these technologies has created new possibilities and the ability to completely transform the industry. The ability to quickly and precisely analyze large volumes of data has significantly improved the effectiveness and accuracy of forensic analysis. In the context of artificial intelligence and machine learning, this paper explores the functions of image analysis, pattern recognition, bloodstain pattern analysis, anomaly detection, cybersecurity, intrusion detection, age, sex, ancestry estimation, facial reconstruction, skeletal trauma analysis, DNA analysis, genomics, fingerprint identification, and voice recognition. The function of numerous technologies, including virtual reality, neural networks, support vector machines, computer vision, CBR, and NLP, is also investigated. Despite the advantages, there are several drawbacks to using these technologies, including the requirement for high-quality data and the possibility of algorithmic bias. Therefore, it is imperative to provide moral and practical criteria for the application of AI and machine learning in forensic science. The main applications, difficulties, and potential future directions of machine learning and AI in forensics are outlined in this review paper. We aim to shed light on the possible advantages and difficulties of these technologies and provide insights into the future of forensic science by analyzing the state of the field today.


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Data Sharing Statement

There are no additional data available. All raw data and code are available upon request.

Funding

This research received no funding.

Author Contributions

All authors contributed significantly to the work and approve its publication.

Ethics Declaration

This article does not involve any human or animal subjects, and therefore does not require ethics approval.

Acknowledgements

We would like to express our gratitude to the patients, their families, and all those who have contributed to this study.

Conflicts of Interest

No conflicts of interest.


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Cite this article

Agrawal G, Bhati K, Shukla M. The Potential of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Forensic Science: An Overview of Key Applications, Challenges, and Future Directions. Indian J Forensic Med Pathol. 2025;18(2 Suppl):225-232.


Licence:

Attribution-Non-commercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0)

This license enables reusers to distribute, remix, adapt, and build upon the material in any medium or format for noncommercial purposes only, and only so long as attribution is given to the creator.


Received Accepted Published
June 25, 2024 June 14, 2025 June 30, 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.21088/ijfmp.0974.3383.18225.23

Keywords

Machine learningArtificial intelligenceForensic scienceCrime scene reconstructionForensic autopsyDigital forensicsFingerprint examination

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Received June 25, 2024
Accepted June 14, 2025
Published June 30, 2025

licence


Attribution-Non-commercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0)

This license enables reusers to distribute, remix, adapt, and build upon the material in any medium or format for noncommercial purposes only, and only so long as attribution is given to the creator.


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