CIL reviews the origin, purpose and supporting material of a diffusion and assesses whether an application for access, correction or deletion is justified.
Red Notice or diffusion: why the distinction matters
| Question | Red Notice | Diffusion |
|---|---|---|
| How circulated? | Published by INTERPOL at a member country's request after the applicable review process | Sent by a National Central Bureau through INTERPOL channels to selected or wider recipients |
| Can it seek arrest? | Yes, a Red Notice seeks location and provisional arrest pending legal action | A red/wanted-person diffusion may also seek arrest, detention or restriction of movement |
| Publicly searchable? | Only some notices appear on the public website | Not generally disclosed on a public list |
| Can INTERPOL data be challenged? | Yes, through applicable mechanisms including the CCF | Yes, if relevant personal data are processed in INTERPOL's systems |
A diffusion is not necessarily 'less serious' than a Red Notice. The consequences depend on its content and the receiving jurisdiction. Compare the mechanisms in detail.
When may a diffusion be challenged?
The legal grounds depend on the actual data. Potential issues include political misuse, concerns relating to fundamental rights, insufficient information identifying the person's alleged conduct, inaccuracies, and the use of international police channels to pursue a predominantly private dispute. A challenge cannot succeed merely because the individual denies the accusation.
Evidence that can matter
- The domestic warrant, charge sheet or summons and an accurate translation.
- Court orders showing dismissal, acquittal or decisions limiting the prosecution.
- Civil pleadings or contractual records where the dispute is essentially commercial.
- Refugee-status or related protection decisions, assessed in their context.
- Written evidence of political retaliation, pressure or discriminatory use of prosecution.
- Documents showing identity errors or an absence of sufficient particulars.
What CIL can do
- Identify what is actually known and separate police comments from documentary proof.
- Consider a CCF access request where disclosure is needed.
- Analyse the diffusion against the relevant INTERPOL rules.
- Prepare and file an appropriately supported deletion request.
- Consider provisional measures where there is documented urgency.
- Coordinate the INTERPOL-data strategy with local defence or extradition counsel.
Important limitation: the CCF is not an extradition court
Deleting data from INTERPOL's systems is not the same as cancelling a domestic arrest warrant. Domestic proceedings and databases may require separate action. If you are detained, contact a qualified local criminal or extradition lawyer immediately.
Frequently asked questions
Is a diffusion always private?
Diffusions are not generally presented through the public Red Notice search interface. Disclosure of INTERPOL-held data may be restricted; the absence of a public entry is not confirmation of absence.
Can a red diffusion lead to arrest?
It may trigger police action under national law. The receiving country makes its own legal decisions.
Do I need to prove the criminal charge is false?
The CCF's mandate is to evaluate INTERPOL data compliance rather than determine criminal guilt. Reliable case documents and precise legal arguments remain essential.
How do I start?
Explain the source of your information, the country concerned and any immediate risk. We will outline what evidence should be checked first.
Source: INTERPOL, About Notices.