technologies. In the context of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, France passed a temporary provision for the real-time processing of images captured by smart cameras for the detection of suspicious events during the Olympics: this will be an important test of how AI could serve the public interest and enhance sustainable security in EU democracies. OLD HABITS – NEW THREATS: CRIME ENABLERS It is imperative not only to keep abreast of the new threats, but also to look ahead at those that will come. We can thus see that old elements, paired with new technologies, have become strong criminal enablers. Disinformation, a very old habit, empowered with the multiplier capacity of social media and AI features can destabilise markets (opening them to insider trading and fraud), influence elections (poisoning the democratic process) and radicalise oppressed populations (paving the way for new recruits to fall into the dark pit of terrorist propaganda). Disinformation spread with the use of large language models can mislead investigations (evidence manipulation, justice process tampering), facilitate document fraud, and result in cyberattacks against information systems, online identities theft and child sexual exploitation. A NEW ERA FOR INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION The global nature of the internet enables criminals to operate across jurisdictions without physically crossing borders. Only one effective weapon can overcome this threat: cooperation. Collaboration allows agencies to pool intelligence, resources and best practices, enhancing their ability to respond to threats. Shared databases and communication platforms can streamline investigations. International task forces can tackle crimes that span multiple jurisdictions, combining expertise and jurisdictional reach to dismantle criminal networks. Sharing knowledge on emerging technologies, such as AI, and investigative techniques fosters a globally competent police force. As technology continues to evolve, so too must law enforcement strategies worldwide. By uniting in their efforts, law enforcement can overcome these challenges and develop tools and strategies that protect and serve communities in the digital age. International cooperation is not just beneficial; it is imperative for ensuring public safety in a connected world.
Old elements, paired with new technologies, have become strong criminal enablers. Disinformation, a very old habit, empowered with the multiplier capacity of social media and AI features can destabilise markets … influence elections … and radicalise oppressed populations”
THE WAY FORWARD One of Europol’s priorities is being at the forefront of research, as innovation is key in any future-looking scenario. AI is the new frontier and, to overcome the current challenges, law enforcement should invest in: 1. employing the array of tools AI has to offer to improve police work; 2. detecting the abuse of AI by those engaged in disinformation; 3. improving and recruiting so AI skills become part of police training landmarks – here, cooperation with the private sector and academia is essential. Mastering new technologies is key to being on par with the threats we face. AI is a game changer; we need to embrace it responsibly, mindful that criminals have often been ahead of the game.
CATHERINE DE BOLLE Catherine De Bolle served as general commissioner of the Belgian Federal Police from 2012 until she took up her post as Europol’s executive director in 2018. Prior to her appointment as Belgian police commissioner, she was Chief of Police in Ninove. In 2015, she received the title of public manager of the year. From November 2015 until November 2018, she was a member of the executive committee of Interpol. She studied law at Ghent University and then went on to graduate from the Royal Gendarmerie Academy in Belgium.
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