By Sukanya Ganesh in AI — Mar 3, 2025

🕵🏻 Transforming Intelligence and Security

AI is reshaping covert operations with advanced surveillance, threat detection, and intelligence gathering.

How does AI help in undercover and covert operations

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AI is revolutionizing undercover operations, enabling law enforcement to track criminals, predict cyberattacks, and uncover hidden threats with speed and precision. From spotting fugitives in crowds to decoding dark web messages and deploying surveillance drones, AI is transforming covert investigations.

Facial Recognition & Biometrics

The New York Police Department (NYPD) utilized AI-powered facial recognition technology to identify a suspect in the assassination of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Surveillance cameras captured the assailant's image, which was then analyzed using AI to match against criminal databases, aiding in the swift identification and apprehension of the suspect.

Predictive Analytics & Crime Forecasting

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) implemented AI-based predictive policing software to analyze crime patterns and forecast high-risk areas. This proactive approach enabled the deployment of undercover officers to potential crime hotspots, resulting in a significant reduction in criminal activities, including burglaries and assaults.

Deepfake & Synthetic Media Detection

Europol reported the use of AI to detect deepfake videos utilized in criminal activities. AI detection tools analyzed inconsistencies in visual and auditory elements, leading to the identification and prevention of fraudulent schemes involving synthetic media.

OSINT (Open-Source Intelligence) & Social Media Monitoring

Law enforcement agencies have employed AI-driven Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) tools to monitor social media platforms for indicators of criminal activities. For instance, AI analyzed patterns and language in online communications, leading to the identification and disruption of organized crime networks.

AI-Enhanced Wiretapping & Voice Analysis

During covert operations against organized crime, AI-based voice analysis tools were used to monitor wiretapped conversations. The AI detected stress patterns and deceptive cues, leading investigators to uncover planned criminal activities, including assassinations.

AI is transforming covert operations by improving surveillance, intelligence gathering, and crime prevention. It enhances tracking, predicts threats, detects anomalies, and aids in digital forensics. AI-powered tools support law enforcement and intelligence agencies in identifying suspects, analyzing data, and conducting undercover work more efficiently and accurately.