BRUSSELS, Belgium / RankWire.AI / – Now, law enforcement officers and border patrol agents within the European Union have the ability to access intelligence on terrorist suspects from external sources instantly. A recent update to the Schengen Information System, implemented on October 15, introduces a new alert feature that enables Member States to input verified data received from third countries and international organizations. This information pertains to suspected terrorists and serious criminals. Europol assists national authorities as they incorporate this data into the system.
The newly introduced alert can involve foreign terrorist fighters and individuals suspected of engaging in terrorist activities, as well as suspects involved in serious criminal investigations. Member States have the authority to issue alerts based on externally sourced information. The European Commission highlighted that this development will enhance law enforcement’s ability to identify more criminals and terrorists. Additionally, it is expected to bolster cooperation among law enforcement agencies across the EU.
Magnus Brunner, the Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, emphasized that the strength of Europe’s security hinges on the quality of information available. The database is a key component of broader EU counterterrorism strategies. According to eu-LISA, approximately 17.7 billion searches were conducted in the system during 2025, representing an 18% increase compared to 2024. The agency, which manages the platform, reported over 94.6 million alerts stored at the end of 2025.
Closing the intelligence gap with external partners
The legal framework supporting this update is Regulation (EU) 2022/1190, enacted on July 6, 2022. It revised the rules governing police and judicial cooperation through the system. Previously, data held by partners on third-country suspects was mainly forwarded to Europol, and law enforcement officers conducting checks on-site had no direct access. The new alert aims to present this information directly during checks, providing officers with immediate access.
Europol conducts an initial analysis of the data and verifies its credibility before recommending an alert. Each Member State then has the discretion to decide whether to activate the alert following its internal review. Only national authorities are authorized to input alerts, which are limited to third-country nationals suspected of crimes falling under Europol’s scope, including terrorism and related serious offenses linked to high-threat criminal networks operating within Europe.
Existing arrest warrants and entry restrictions remain in effect
This new alert category does not replace existing alerts in the system. Member States can still issue alerts based on arrest warrants, as well as for entry or residence refusals. When a match is identified, the national SIRENE Bureau contacts the issuing country’s counterpart. The offices exchange additional details and determine the subsequent steps to be taken in each case.
Starting October 15, this update is effective across all countries connected to the system. National authorities will now determine which pieces of external partner information should be converted into alerts. The European Commission stated that this enhancement will assist border guards and police officers in recognizing more suspects. Alerts will be visible during routine border checks and within the Schengen zone. Europol will continue to support Member States in managing partner intelligence data.