What are the indicators of trace overs?

The recognition of trace overs is essential in forensic document examination, particularly when assessing alterations or forgeries. "Trace overs" refers to the subtle indicators that can identify tampering or changes made to a document. The presence of ink and the type of font used are both critical elements in this analysis.

Ink presence is a significant factor because different inks can behave differently based on their chemical composition. For instance, some inks may smudge, while others maintain sharp lines, which can reveal layering or alterations made after the original writing was done.

Similarly, the type of font used impacts the examination process. Fonts can vary in their characteristics, such as size, shape, and line thickness. Anomalies in font usage can signal inconsistencies within the document that may not align with the expected appearance or may reveal modifications, indicating that the document may have been altered.

Together, the assessment of both ink and font provides a comprehensive view, making them crucial indicators for detecting trace overs in documents. These combined elements help forensic experts evaluate the integrity of the document and determine the authenticity of signatures or printed text.