Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) stated that the German state must rely heavily on automated data analysis and biometric comparison to combat terrorists and serious criminals. According to the minister, integrating automated data analysis into investigations will make the process “faster, sharper, and more structured”. He added that this capability will allow authorities to identify, understand, and systematically track networks, structures, and criminal connections much earlier. Furthermore, biometric matching will enable both the police and the domestic intelligence service to precisely check and identify wanted individuals. Dobrindt maintained that anyone seeking to harm German society will face a “strong state, one that is decisively in action and effective in its results”.
To implement these powers, Dobrindt plans to introduce a legislative draft concerning digital investigative authorities to the Federal Cabinet this Wednesday. Sources indicate that this reform significantly expands capabilities, specifically encompassing automated data analysis, biometric internet comparisons, and the testing and training of new IT products.
The draft law emphasizes that automated data analysis is a “central component” necessary to process the continually growing volumes of data generated in police crime prevention and investigative procedures. By analyzing data that has already been legally collected by the police, authorities will be able to map out connections between specific offenses, individuals, geographical locations, and all related points of contact.
In a related development, the federal government previously approved a new draft law that restores the ability to store IP addresses. An Internet Protocol (IP) address helps determine the originating device for any transmitted data. Dobrindt argues that this will enhance the ability of investigators to fight major internet-related crimes, such as the distribution of child abuse material or instances of cyber fraud. Under the proposed reform, network service providers would be obligated to store the necessary IP address data for a period of three months.
