Counter-detection activities of organized criminal groups

Abstract

Counter-detection measures taken by professional criminals, members of organised crime groups and associations, terrorists and extremists constitute an important dimension of criminal activity. This issue is recognised by a narrow range of practitioners in policing circles, e.g. according to Europol’s position, so-called ‚counter-discovery’ measures are increasingly becoming permanent elements of criminal strategy and tactics. The popularity of these techniques aimed at neutralising police action, actively influencing ongoing criminal proceedings, is clearly increasing and can be interpreted in terms of the professionalisation of the criminal world.