Interpol Diffusion

Interpol Diffusions are a key tool for international cooperation, used for the rapid and effective exchange of information between law enforcement representatives of member countries. Thanks to these Interpol notifications, important information about criminal activities and international crimes can be quickly disseminated.

With its extensive network of member countries, Interpol enhances vigilance and cross-border security. Interpol’s dissemination system allows for swift and targeted responses to potential threats, ensuring that international criminals can’t escape justice.

Interpol Diffusion

Interpol DiffusionNotice Meaning

Interpol diffusions are effective tools for organizing international law enforcement activities and for the rapid exchange of information between member countries. Thanks to this alert mechanism, Interpol National Central Bureaus (NCBs) and other authorized agencies can disseminate information about individuals wanted for crimes and other criminal matters.

 

Interpol Diffusions are dangerous to individuals as they’re issued at the national level without prior coordination with the Interpol General Secretariat. That means that law enforcement agencies can instantly send diffusions to several countries without the strict legal standards required for an Interpol Red Notice.

Because Diffusions are fast and lightly screened, misuse is common. Consequently, innocent individuals can be flagged internationally without due process. That increases the risk of wrongful arrest while travelling internationally, significantly disrupting your life even without trial, evidence, or conviction.

Considering their speed and legal consequences, it’s crucial to consult an Interpol diffusion removal attorney immediately. A diffusion removal lawyer will help you verify whether a diffusion has been issued against you and immediately petition for its deletion through the Commission for the Control of Interpol’s Files (CCF) to protect your rights.

Why Diffusions are dangerous for you

The purpose of Interpol Diffusions

Diffusion can contain various pieces of information depending on the purpose of its release. For example, this could include data about wanted individuals, requests for arrest or extradition, and information about stolen items.

Interpol diffusion is used for various purposes, such as:

The conditions for the dissemination of diffusion are similar to the general conditions for entry into the Organization’s database. Notification of Interpol diffusion must be translated into at least one of the Organization’s official languages.

Individuals who have become the subject of Interpol’s diffusion must fully understand the seriousness of the legal consequences, including arrest or extradition. Therefore, it’s crucial to seek advice from an experienced Interpol diffusion lawyer as early as possible, who can professionally assess the legality of the diffusion and, if necessary, challenge such a decision.

Wanted person diffusion vs red notice comparison table

FeatureInterpol DiffusionRed Notice
Who issues it?Sent directly by the national law enforcement agencies through their National Central Bureau, and sent directly to specific countries.Issued by the Interpol General Secretariat on the request of a member state after a thorough scrutiny and approval.
Level of scrutiny/ formalityLess formal and doesn’t require scrutiny or approval from the Interpol General Secretariat before its distribution.Formal and subject to intense scrutiny for compliance with Interpol’s regulations before its publication. 
Geographical reachSent to one or two specific countries chosen by the requesting state. Circulated globally to all Interpol member countries 
ObjectiveFast information sharing to request assistance in locating high-risk suspects or seeking provisional arrest where speed and discretion are required.Seeking the location and detention (or arrest) of suspects pending extradition based on the underlying warrant or judicial decision.
Public visibilityNot available on Interpol’s public databases to maintain discretion. Only relevant law enforcement agencies can access it.Often included on the publicly available “wanted persons” list on Interpol’s website. However, some information might be restricted. 
Legal weightLess authoritative, and the countries receiving it have no legal obligation to act. The decision is discretionary. More authoritative and stronger expectation of detention pending extradition. However, national legal standards apply. 

How to remove an Interpol Diffusion Notice

The process for removing an Interpol diffusion is similar to removing a red notice. First, you need to submit an application to the CCF Commission, which will assess whether the diffusion complies with the Organization’s rules. After that, the CCF will decide whether to remove or update the diffusion.

Any request to remove diffusion must comply with the requirements set by the Interpol File Control Commission. First off, the application must be submitted in one of the Organization’s official languages (English, Arabic, French, or Spanish). Make sure your request includes a precise statement of the facts concerning the complaint, as well as any legal acts that have been violated. You can also attach any documents that support your request. 

Supplement your request with an indictment, expected sentence, and references to any active arrest warrant or court decision of equivalent standing. Another question that needs to be considered is the consequences of obtaining an Interpol diffusion. Success in getting an Interpol diffusion removed largely depends on having qualified legal support. 

Lawyers who specialize in Interpol matters can help develop a defense strategy, prepare the necessary documents, and also represent your interests before the CCF. Our law firm has extensive experience in handling such issues and is ready to provide you with all the support you need in this process. If you’re facing an Interpol diffusion issue, reach out to us to protect your rights and achieve justice.

Dr. Anatoliy Yarovyi
Senior Partner

Countries We Serve

FAQs

How can you know if there’s an Interpol diffusion against you?

Unlike Interpol Red Notices, Diffusions aren’t published on the public database, and suspects don’t receive any formal notification. These alerts are circulated quietly between law enforcement agencies and remain invisible until issues like visa denial, asset freezes, or arrest at the border arise. However, a qualified diffusions lawyer can safely and discreetly make enquiries through the NCB and trusted defense channels on your behalf. 

Can I travel locally or internationally with an Interpol Diffusion?

Travelling internationally with an Interpol Diffusion is extremely risky since these alerts are circulated discreetly through international police databases, including border and immigration systems. Local travels depend on the diplomatic relationship between the requesting state and your country of residence. However, it’s wise to avoid travelling with an Interpol Diffusion and consult an experienced Interpol Diffusion lawyer immediately. 

Why is it important to request underlying documentation supporting a red notice or wanted person diffusion request?

Requesting the underlying documentation behind an Interpol Diffusion or Red Notice is a crucial step in developing a defense strategy. The documents reveal the legal basis of an alert and help your lawyer determine whether it is legal, challengeable, or abusive. Without looking at the judicial orders and evidence behind the request, you will be fighting blind. 

What countries are not in Interpol?

Interpol currently has 196 member states. However, some states and territories remain outside the organization since membership requires certain criteria, like recognition and stable police structures. That includes territories like Tuvalu, Pulau, and Micronesia.

Can an Interpol Diffusion lead to extradition?

Yes, an Interpol Diffusion can lead to detention and extradition, albeit less formal than a Red Notice. Most people underestimate diffusions due to their invisibility and the structure of a Red Notice, but they can trigger rapid cross-border arrests and extradition. These alerts are essentially a direct request from one country to another for locating, arresting, and providing intelligence about a wanted person. 

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