INTERPOL uses Biometric Hub to arrest a fugitive
Background
European law enforcement has successfully used data from INTERPOL’s Biometric Hub (INTEROL’s tool that leverages biometric data to identify suspects) to arrest a fugitive migrant smuggler, who was travelling under false identity and was intercepted in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. His biometric data was entered in the INTERPOL system and checked against INTERPOL’s global databases resulting in his photograph being flagged as wanted in another European country.
What is INTERPOL’s Biometric Hub?
In October 2023, INTERPOL launched its Biometric Hub, a tool which employs technology supplied by the French identity and biometrics vendor Idemia to compare individual biometric data with INTERPOL’s extensive global fingerprint and facial recognition databases. INTERPOL announced the rollout of the HUB on its 100th anniversary at the 91st General Assembly, with access granted to 196 of its member nations.
During the initial phase INTERPOL has been using the HUB to identify potential Persons of Interest (POIs) in police investigations. Already, the INTERPOL identification system allows member countries to identify POIs faster than ever before. The second phase of deployment, planned over the next two years, will extend the system’s application to border control points to enhance border security worldwide.
Are there any privacy concerns?
Biometric data used in searches, performed via INTERPOL’s Biometric Hub, is not added to criminal databases, nor it is visible to other users; besides, the data that does not result in a match is deleted following the investigation, thus respecting the data privacy policy.
INTERPOL assistance
If you fear that a jurisdiction may have requested INTERPOL to process data relating to you, or if you are concerned about potential liability, you should get in contact with Gherson.
Gherson Solicitors continue to receive requests for expert advice and assistance from those who fear they may have outstanding financial issues arising. The advice tackles:
- How to best approach a possible INTERPOL red notice;
- Preparing for potential criminal proceedings / an extradition request;
- Preparing for a situation where a civil matter or commercial dispute could be used to initiate bogus criminal proceedings; and
- Even exploring the possibility of instigating civil litigation proceedings to recover any misappropriated assets.
Gherson have previously written a series of blogs designed to assist those who fear they might be subject to INTERPOL measures (including a Red Notice):
INTERPOL and Red Notice Challenges
How to Remove an INTERPOL Red Notice?
INTERPOL Red Notices and Extradition
How do I know if I am subject to an INTERPOL Red Notice?
Regulation and compliance
In these constantly changing times, firms that deal with cryptoassets and/or have exposure to firms that are involved in cryptoasset transactions, will need to carefully consider all their systems and controls to ensure that they are able to comply with the relevant AML and sanctions regulations.
How Gherson can assist
Gherson’s white-collar crime and regulatory team provide advice and assistance with AML and sanctions compliance, including in situations involving cryptoassets.
The team have recently started a series of blogs on the regulation of crypto, with the aim of advising those who work in the compliance of this sector. In addition, for those who would like advice on relevant issues, including the FCA registration process, our specialist regulatory and compliance team can guide individuals and companies through the process.
Please do not hesitate to contact us for further advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, or LinkedIn to stay up-to-date.
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.
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