Check the physical serial evidence
Synthetic labels AS5 and OLD5 both physically map to serial SN5. Issue rows point AS5→S12 and OLD5→S13, both claimed active. Local policy registers one canonical device AS5 with alias OLD5, but cannot decide the current custodian without possession evidence. No second device is supplied.
| Label | Serial | Claimed custodian |
|---|---|---|
| AS5 | SN5 | S12 |
| OLD5 | SN5 | S13 |
Choose one canonical device identity
- Verify both labels against SN5
- Record OLD5 as AS5 alias
- Flag active custody conflict
- Seek actual possession evidence
Do not merge two different serials merely because their display labels resemble one another.
How many physical devices are evidenced and is custody resolved?
Show the worked answer
One physical device is evidenced. Custody remains unresolved between S12/S13; alias consolidation alone cannot choose a custodian.
Resolve conflicting custody separately
| Case | Action or result | Evidence boundary |
|---|---|---|
| Count two label rows as two devices | Reject | Same physical serial |
| Alias resolved, custody still flagged | Accurate state | Separate identity and possession questions |
Keep both original issue references until custody conflict is resolved. A canonical identity correction must not erase either claim.