Article 3, INTERPOL Constitution
Political character of the case
INTERPOL is forbidden from any intervention or activities of a political, military, religious or racial character. The wider context matters: who is prosecuting, why and when.
An INTERPOL-only legal practice
Challenging INTERPOL Red Notices and Diffusions.
We help individuals worldwide challenge Red Notices and Diffusions and seek the correction or deletion of their INTERPOL data before the Commission for the Control of INTERPOL's Files (CCF). Led by a former CCF Legal Officer. Start with a confidential assessment of your situation.
- Former CCF Legal Officer
- Exclusively INTERPOL matters
- Confidential from first contact
Ahmed Abdelmawgoud Legal Adviser · Former Legal Officer, CCF
Detained, stopped at a border or facing extradition? Call +357 96 447475
When you need our help
Which of these describes your situation?
Select the closest match. It takes you straight to a short, confidential enquiry form — you can add detail later, in a privileged consultation.
01
A Red Notice has been issued against me
You know or suspect that a member country has requested a Red Notice. We assess whether it complies with INTERPOL's rules and how it can be challenged.
Request a review
02
I have discovered an INTERPOL Diffusion
Diffusions are sent directly between police authorities and are never published. They can be challenged on the same legal grounds as Notices.
Request a review
03
I fear arrest or extradition
You were stopped at a border, detained abroad or are worried about travelling. Your INTERPOL strategy must then fit your extradition defence.
Request a review
04
INTERPOL data about me is wrong or unlawful
The information is inaccurate or outdated, or the case behind it is political or a private dispute. Such data can be corrected or deleted.
Request a review
05
My request to the CCF was rejected
A refusal is not a finding of guilt. We review the decision and assess whether revision or another route is realistically available.
Request a review
06
I expect an international alert
Criminal proceedings have been opened or threatened against you. In some cases, steps can be taken before a request reaches INTERPOL.
Request a review
07
I need to know my INTERPOL status
Travel, banking or visa problems with no clear explanation. A formal access request to the CCF is the reliable way to find out.
Request a review
08
My situation is different
Not every case fits a category. Tell us briefly what has happened and we will explain whether and how we can help.
Describe your situation
Our legal services
Focused legal work on INTERPOL data — and nothing else.
Every matter concerns information processed through INTERPOL's Information System: whether it exists, whether it complies with INTERPOL's rules, and how it can be corrected or deleted.
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01
Red Notice challenges and removal
A Red Notice asks law enforcement worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition or similar legal action. It can lead to detention at a border, refused visas and closed bank accounts.
We examine whether the Notice meets the conditions of INTERPOL's Constitution and Rules on the Processing of Data, and prepare a reasoned request to the CCF for its deletion or correction.
- Analysis of the underlying proceedings and documents
- Identification of the applicable legal grounds
- Application and supporting evidence
- Responses to the requesting country's arguments
Objective Deletion of the Red Notice from INTERPOL's files, or correction of the data it contains.
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02
Diffusion challenges
A Diffusion is a request for cooperation sent by a country's National Central Bureau directly to some or all member countries. It is not published, so many people learn of it only when stopped or refused entry.
Diffusions are subject to the same rules as Notices. We assess whether the Diffusion is compliant and, where grounds exist, challenge it before the CCF.
- Establishing whether a Diffusion exists and what it contains
- Assessment of compliance with INTERPOL's rules
- Application for deletion or correction
- Follow-up on related data in INTERPOL's files
Objective Deletion of the Diffusion, or correction of the data recorded in it.
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03
INTERPOL data access requests
Most people do not know whether INTERPOL holds data about them — and a search of INTERPOL's public website does not answer the question.
We prepare and submit a formal access request to the CCF, and explain what its response means for you in practice.
- Request, identity and authorisation documents
- Communication with the CCF
- Analysis of the information disclosed, or of any restriction
- Advice on whether further action is needed
Objective A documented answer on whether INTERPOL processes your data — the basis for every further decision.
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04
Deletion and correction of INTERPOL data
Data in INTERPOL's files can be inaccurate, outdated or no longer justified — for example after charges are dropped, a case is closed or extradition is refused.
We prepare a request to the CCF explaining why the processing no longer complies with INTERPOL's rules, supported by documentary evidence.
- Review of developments in the national case
- Court decisions and official documents
- Legal argument on accuracy, relevance and necessity
- Application to the CCF and follow-up
Objective Deletion of the data, or its correction to reflect the actual legal situation.
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05
Preventive submissions
Proceedings have been opened against you, and you have credible reason to expect an international request.
Where the circumstances justify it, legally relevant information can be placed before INTERPOL at an early stage, so that it can be taken into account if a request concerning you is received.
- Assessment of the risk and your procedural status
- Choice of timing and channel
- Submission and supporting evidence
- Updates as circumstances change
Objective Ensuring INTERPOL has the relevant context when assessing any future request. A preventive submission does not automatically block a Notice or Diffusion.
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06
Provisional measures
While the CCF examines a request, the Notice or Diffusion normally remains in place — which may be critical if you face detention or need to travel.
The CCF can decide on provisional measures in certain circumstances. Where justified, we request them alongside the main application.
- Assessment of urgency and grounds
- Reasoned request with supporting evidence
- Coordination with the main application
Objective Temporary protection while the request is examined. Provisional measures do not delete the data.
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07
Revision of CCF decisions
CCF decisions are final. An application for revision is possible only in limited circumstances — essentially where a new fact emerges that could have led to a different decision.
We analyse the decision and the original application, and assess honestly whether the conditions for revision are met — or whether another route is more realistic.
- Review of the decision and its reasoning
- Assessment of new facts and evidence
- Application for revision where justified
- Advice on alternative routes
Objective Reconsideration of the decision where the conditions for revision are met.
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08
Extradition-related legal assistance
A Notice or Diffusion often leads to arrest and extradition proceedings in another country. The INTERPOL position and the extradition defence must not contradict each other.
We advise on the INTERPOL dimension of the case and work alongside your local extradition counsel, so that arguments and evidence are consistent across proceedings.
- INTERPOL strategy during arrest or extradition proceedings
- Coordination with local defence counsel
- Use of extradition decisions before the CCF
- Advice on travel risk
Objective One coherent strategy across INTERPOL and national proceedings. Court representation abroad is provided by locally qualified counsel.
Not sure which of these applies to you? That is exactly what a case review is for.
Request a Confidential Case ReviewWhy CCF experience matters
“The CCF does not decide guilt. It decides whether INTERPOL's rules were respected.”
Our legal adviser previously served as a Legal Officer at the Commission for the Control of INTERPOL's Files, working on requests for access to, correction and deletion of INTERPOL data. That experience shapes how every case is prepared.
- What the Commission examines
- The CCF reviews whether data processing complies with INTERPOL's rules — not whether you committed an offence. An effective application speaks to that mandate.
- How the rules apply in practice
- An understanding of how the Constitution and the Rules on the Processing of Data are applied to individual Notices and Diffusions.
- What makes a submission work
- A clear structure, relevant evidence and arguments the Commission can verify — rather than long statements about the criminal case itself.
- How the procedure unfolds
- Familiarity with each stage, including the exchange of arguments with the country that provided the data.
Meet your legal adviser
Ahmed Abdelmawgoud
Legal Adviser — INTERPOL & International Criminal Law
Former Legal Officer
Commission for the Control of INTERPOL's Files (CCF)
Ahmed is a Legal Adviser specialising in INTERPOL matters, international police cooperation and transnational criminal law.
He previously served as a Legal Officer with the CCF, where he worked on matters relating to access to, correction and deletion of data processed through INTERPOL's Information System.
Today his practice is dedicated to the other side of that process: representing individuals affected by INTERPOL Notices and Diffusions — in proceedings before the CCF, in matters connected to international extradition, and through strategic legal submissions aimed at challenging non-compliant INTERPOL data.
Practice focus
Grounds for challenging INTERPOL data
Can a Red Notice or Diffusion be removed?
It can, where the processing of the data does not comply with INTERPOL's rules. The CCF does not retry the criminal case or decide guilt or innocence — it examines whether INTERPOL may lawfully process the data. These are among the grounds most often examined.
Rules on the Processing of Data
Non-compliance with INTERPOL's rules
Each type of notice has specific conditions. Red Notices, for example, are reserved for serious ordinary-law crimes and may not be used for private disputes or purely administrative matters.
Data quality
Insufficient or inaccurate information
Data must be accurate and rest on a sufficient legal and factual basis, such as a valid arrest warrant or court decision. Errors and missing elements can justify correction or deletion.
Article 2, INTERPOL Constitution
Human rights concerns
Cooperation must take place in the spirit of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Serious fair-trial concerns, a risk of persecution or recognised refugee status can be relevant.
Necessity & proportionality
Proportionality of data processing
Processing must remain relevant and justified for its purpose — which may no longer be the case where proceedings have ended, the case is time-barred or extradition has been refused.
Procedure
Procedural requirements
Requests must follow the procedures set by INTERPOL's rules, including the minimum data required and the legal basis behind them. Shortcomings can affect whether the data may be processed.
Each case is assessed individually. The presence of one of these circumstances does not in itself guarantee deletion of a Notice or Diffusion. This overview is general information, not legal advice.
Our legal approach
A clear, confidential process from the first message.
You will always know what is happening, what comes next and what is needed from you — explained in plain language.
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1
Initial case assessment
A confidential conversation about what has happened, what you already know and what you want to achieve. We explain your realistic options.
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2
Review of information and documents
We review the documents you have — court decisions, warrants, correspondence — and, where needed, first establish what INTERPOL holds.
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3
Identifying the legal grounds
We identify which of INTERPOL's rules may not have been respected, and which facts and evidence support that.
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4
Developing the strategy
We decide what to request, when and how — consistent with any extradition, asylum or national proceedings.
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5
Preparing and submitting
We draft the application, assemble the supporting evidence and submit it to the CCF once you have reviewed it.
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6
Monitoring and next steps
We follow the proceedings, respond to new arguments, explain the Commission's decision and advise on what follows.
The first step is a short, confidential enquiry.
Why choose this practice
Why clients choose an INTERPOL‑only practice.
We are an INTERPOL-only legal practice, built on first-hand CCF experience. That narrow focus is deliberate: it allows every case to be prepared with the depth that INTERPOL proceedings require.
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INTERPOL-focused practice
INTERPOL matters are not one service among many here. They are the entire practice.
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First-hand CCF experience
Our legal adviser previously served as a Legal Officer at the Commission for the Control of INTERPOL's Files.
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Individual legal assessment
Every matter is assessed on its own facts before anything is recommended — including when no action is needed.
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Case-specific strategy
No templates. Each submission is built around the grounds and the evidence of your case.
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Attention to confidentiality
Sensitive information is handled with discretion from the very first contact.
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International perspective
CCF proceedings are written, so we act for clients wherever they are — working alongside counsel in other countries where needed.
Before you apply alone
Applying to the CCF yourself is possible. It is rarely simple.
Anyone can submit a request to the CCF without a lawyer. But the Commission decides on the basis of what is put before it — and a weak first application can be difficult to repair.
Common difficulties
- The wrong legal grounds. Arguments about innocence, rather than compliance with INTERPOL's rules, fall outside the CCF's mandate.
- Insufficient reasoning. Statements without legal analysis or evidence rarely outweigh the position of the requesting country.
- Missing documents. Key court decisions, translations or evidence of the wider context are often left out.
- An unclear structure. Long, unstructured submissions can hide the facts that actually matter.
- Procedural requirements. Incomplete requests or missing authorisations can delay or limit the procedure.
- Follow-up and revision. Answering the requesting country — and later meeting the strict conditions for revision — is harder after a weak first application.
Quality and legal review
Before any submission is filed, it is checked for:
- Facts A clear, accurate chronology drawn from the documents.
- Legal grounds Each argument tested against INTERPOL's rules and the CCF's mandate.
- Consistency No contradictions between the application, the evidence and positions in other proceedings.
- Evidence Material that is relevant, verifiable and properly translated.
- Procedure A complete request that meets the CCF's formal requirements.
- Final review A full legal review of the final text before it is filed.
Legal fees
Legal services and fees.
Legal fees are determined based on the nature, complexity and scope of each case. After an initial assessment, we explain the work required and the applicable fees, so you can decide how to proceed.
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Initial Legal Consultation
A confidential consultation to review your situation, explain how INTERPOL procedures apply and outline realistic options.
Fee on assessment
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INTERPOL Status and Data Access Request
Preparation and submission of an access request to the CCF, and an explanation of its response.
Fee on assessment
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Red Notice Challenge
Analysis, legal strategy and a full application to the CCF for deletion or correction of a Red Notice.
Fee on assessment
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Diffusion Challenge
Analysis, legal strategy and a full application to the CCF concerning a Diffusion.
Fee on assessment
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Preventive Submission
Risk assessment and an early submission where an international request is anticipated.
Fee on assessment
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Provisional Measures
A reasoned request for interim measures while the CCF examines the main application.
Fee on assessment
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Revision of CCF Decision
Review of the decision and, where the conditions are met, an application for revision.
Fee on assessment
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Not sure what you need?
Tell us briefly what is happening. We will explain which service fits your situation.
Request a Case Assessment
Third-party costs, such as certified translations, may apply. Representation in national courts is agreed separately with local counsel.
Confidentiality
Discretion from the first message.
INTERPOL matters often involve information whose disclosure could create legal, personal or security risks. We treat it accordingly.
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Sensitive personal information
We ask only for what is needed at each stage. You decide what to share, and when.
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Careful handling of documents
Case documents are shared only with those working on your matter and used only for its purposes.
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Confidential communication
Consultations by phone or video call, and written communication through the channel you prefer.
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Individual review
Each case is reviewed on its own facts, and information from one matter is not used in another.
Questions
What clients usually ask first.
If your question is not here, ask it in your enquiry.
Ask your questionINTERPOL Notices and Diffusions
What is an INTERPOL Red Notice?
A Red Notice is a request circulated through INTERPOL, at the request of a member country, asking law enforcement worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender or similar legal action. It is not an international arrest warrant: each country decides what legal effect to give it. In practice, it can lead to arrest at a border, refused visas and problems with banks.
What is the difference between a Red Notice and a Diffusion?
A Red Notice is issued by INTERPOL's General Secretariat at a member country's request. A Diffusion is sent by a country's National Central Bureau directly to some or all other member countries. Diffusions are never public, but both are recorded in INTERPOL's databases, are subject to the same rules and can be challenged before the CCF.
Can a Red Notice lead to extradition?
It can. A Red Notice often leads to arrest, after which the requesting country may seek extradition through the national courts. Whether extradition is granted depends on the law of the country where you are and any applicable treaty — not on INTERPOL. Where extradition is refused, for example on human rights grounds, that decision can be relevant in CCF proceedings.
How can I find out whether INTERPOL has data about me?
Many Red Notices are not public, and Diffusions never are, so a search on INTERPOL's website is not conclusive. The reliable route is a formal access request to the CCF. The Commission can confirm whether data is processed, although disclosure may be restricted in some cases — for example, where the country that provided the data objects. We can prepare and submit this request for you.
Challenging INTERPOL data
Can I challenge a Red Notice?
Yes. Anyone whose data is processed by INTERPOL can ask the CCF to correct or delete it. The request must show why the processing does not comply with INTERPOL's Constitution or Rules on the Processing of Data — not simply that you are innocent.
Can an INTERPOL Red Notice be removed?
Yes, where it does not comply with INTERPOL's rules — for example because the case is political, the data is inaccurate or the conditions for a Red Notice are not met. Where the CCF finds the processing non-compliant, the data is deleted or corrected. Removal is never guaranteed: each case depends on its facts and evidence.
Can I challenge an INTERPOL alert before being arrested?
Yes. You do not need to be detained or located to apply to the CCF, and acting early often leaves more options open. Where no request has yet been made, a preventive submission may be considered in some cases.
Can I request provisional measures?
The CCF can decide on provisional measures in certain circumstances while a request is being examined. Such measures are temporary and do not delete the data. Whether they are appropriate depends on the urgency and the grounds of your case.
The CCF procedure
What happens after submitting a request to the CCF?
The Commission first checks whether the request is admissible. It then examines the case, which usually involves consulting the National Central Bureau that provided the data. You may be given the opportunity to respond to that country's arguments. The Commission then issues a reasoned decision.
How long does the CCF procedure take?
The CCF's Statute sets time limits for its decisions — generally four months for access requests and nine months for requests for correction or deletion, counted from when the request is admissible. These periods can be extended in some circumstances, and timing in an individual case varies. We will explain what to expect in yours.
What happens if the CCF rejects my request?
A rejection is not a finding of guilt — it means the Commission found the processing compliant on the material before it. CCF decisions are final, but an application for revision may be possible where a new fact emerges that could have changed the outcome. We can assess whether that, or another route, is realistic.
Does previous work at the CCF mean you can influence its decisions?
No. The CCF is an independent body and decides each request on its merits. What first-hand experience brings is a detailed understanding of the procedure, the applicable rules and how submissions are assessed — which helps us prepare stronger, better-structured cases.
Working with us
Do I need a lawyer to submit a request to the CCF?
No. Individuals can apply to the CCF directly. However, the Commission decides on the basis of what is put before it, and a request that focuses on the wrong issues or lacks evidence is difficult to repair later. Legal representation helps ensure the application addresses the right grounds, in the right form.
Is my case information confidential?
Yes. Everything you share is treated as strictly confidential and is used only to assess and handle your matter. The enquiry form asks for basic details only; sensitive facts can be discussed in a privileged consultation.
Can you help if I live in a different country?
Yes. Proceedings before the CCF are conducted in writing, so we can represent you wherever you are located. Consultations take place by phone or video call.
How much does INTERPOL legal assistance cost?
Legal fees are determined based on the nature, complexity and scope of each case. After an initial assessment, we explain the work required and the applicable fees, so you can decide how to proceed. See our legal services and fees.
Confidential case assessment
Tell us briefly what is happening.
An initial assessment helps establish where you stand with INTERPOL, what your realistic options are and what the next step should be. A few details are enough to start — we will contact you to arrange a confidential consultation.
- Strictly confidential. Your enquiry is seen only by the legal team.
- No sensitive details needed. Share only what you are comfortable with.
- No obligation. An enquiry does not commit you to anything.
Received
Thank you. Your enquiry has been received.
We will contact you using the details you provided to arrange a confidential consultation. If your matter is urgent, please call +357 96 447475.