INTERPOL (The International Criminal Police Organization) plays a vital role in enhancing global security by providing its 195 member countries with instant, secure access to a wide range of criminal databases. These databases contain millions of records that can be used to track fingerprints, DNA, stolen motor vehicles, firearms, and even stolen and lost travel documents. INTERPOL’s information-sharing solutions enable countries to combat crime more effectively through a centralised and technologically advanced system that operates in real-time.
The I-24/7 secure police communications system
At the heart of INTERPOL’s information-sharing capabilities is the I-24/7 secure police communications system. This platform allows for the instant exchange of criminal data between member countries, in compliance with international legal standards. The I-24/7 system is not only technologically sophisticated but is also embedded with advanced security features to ensure data protection and confidentiality. Additionally, the system is flexible, allowing for customisation based on the specific needs of member countries.
While most of INTERPOL’s databases are accessible via the I-24/7 Dashboard, which is a restricted-access internet portal, one exception is the database on child sexual exploitation images. INTERPOL continues to expand access to its databases, making them available to frontline law enforcement officers, such as border guards. This ensures that critical criminal data is available where it’s needed most—on the frontlines of national and international security.
With these solutions, law enforcement officers can conduct simultaneous queries to both national and INTERPOL databases, receiving responses within seconds. This rapid access to information aids in the identification of suspects, the verification of travel documents, and the recovery of stolen goods.
Main INTERPOL databases
INTERPOL manages several specialised databases that address various aspects of international crime. These databases contain critical information that helps member countries track and solve crimes, as well as identify missing persons or stolen assets.
Nominal Data
This database contains records on known international criminals, missing persons, and unidentified dead bodies. Law enforcement can access criminal histories, photographs, and fingerprints to aid investigations.
DNA Profiles
A unique database storing numerically coded genetic markers that are vital for solving crimes and identifying missing persons or unidentified bodies. DNA evidence can be critical in high-profile investigations, providing concrete links to individuals.
Fingerprints
The Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) houses fingerprints and crime scene marks submitted by member countries. These can be submitted electronically or by mail, allowing for international crime scene comparisons.
Child sexual exploitation image database (ICSE)
This database contains images of victims and offenders involved in child sexual exploitation, enabling investigators to track down offenders and rescue victims.
Stolen and lost travel documents
This database helps to quickly ascertain whether a travel document, such as a passport, has been reported lost or stolen. Immigration and border control officers use this system to verify the authenticity of travel documents in seconds.
Stolen administrative documents
Records of official documents that help identify objects, such as vehicle registration papers or import/export clearance certificates, are stored here, aiding in fraud prevention and identification.
Stolen motor vehicles
Law enforcement agencies can use this database to identify stolen vehicles, accessing detailed information on vehicles reported missing around the world.
Stolen works of art
This database contains records of stolen artworks and cultural heritage objects, enabling law enforcement to track and recover valuable and historically significant items.
Foreign terrorist fighters
Established in August 2015, this analytical database contains information on terrorist suspects from conflict zones, borders, and prisons. It is a key resource in the global fight against terrorism.
Firearms databases
INTERPOL also supports global efforts to combat firearm-related crimes through specialised databases.
Illicit Arms Records and Tracing Management System (iARMS)
A centralised platform used by law enforcement to report, query, and trace lost, stolen, trafficked, or smuggled firearms globally.
INTERPOL firearms reference table
This table helps investigators properly identify firearms used in crimes by providing detailed specifications and classifications of various types of firearms.
INTERPOL ballistic information network
The only large-scale international platform for sharing and comparing ballistics data. This network enables the comparison of ballistic evidence across multiple jurisdictions, aiding in the investigation of gun-related crimes.
Key takeaways
INTERPOL’s commitment to global information sharing has transformed how member countries work together to combat crime. By providing real-time access to vast amounts of critical criminal data, INTERPOL has empowered law enforcement agencies worldwide to respond to threats more effectively, while ensuring that international standards for data protection and legality are met. Through the I-24/7 system and its comprehensive databases, INTERPOL continues to be at the forefront of global efforts to enhance public safety and security.
