BRUSSELS, Belgium / RankWire.AI / – From October 15, police officers and border guards across the European Union can access real-time intelligence updates from external sources regarding terrorist suspects. A new alert feature within the Schengen Information System became operational on this date, enabling Member States to input verified information received from third countries and international organizations. The data primarily pertains to suspected terrorists and serious criminals. Europol provides support to national authorities as they incorporate this information into the system.
This alert can be issued for foreign terrorist fighters and individuals under suspicion of terrorist activity, as well as suspects involved in serious criminal investigations. Member States now have the option to activate these alerts based on data obtained from external partners. The European Commission highlighted that this update will enhance law enforcement’s ability to identify more criminals and terrorists, while also strengthening cooperation across law enforcement agencies within the EU.
Magnus Brunner, the Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, emphasized that Europe’s security relies heavily on the quality of information available. The database functions as a central element in broader EU counterterrorism initiatives. According to eu-LISA, around 17.7 billion searches were conducted in 2025, reflecting an 18% increase from 2024. The agency, responsible for managing the system, reported that over 94.6 million alerts were stored at the end of 2025.
Closing the intelligence gap from partners
Legal foundations for this development are set by Regulation (EU) 2022/1190, enacted on July 6, 2022, which modified the rules governing police and judicial cooperation through the system. Prior to this, information held by partners on third-country suspects was mainly relayed to Europol, leaving officers conducting checks with no direct access. The new alert system aims to present this information immediately during inspections.
Initially, Europol evaluates the received data for accuracy and reliability before proposing an alert. Each Member State has the discretion to decide whether to register the alert after conducting its own verification process. Only national authorities are authorized to submit alerts. These alerts target third-country nationals suspected of offenses within Europol’s scope, including terrorism and other serious crimes linked to high-threat criminal networks operating throughout Europe.
Existing arrest warrant and entry ban alerts remain in effect
This new category does not replace any existing alerts in the system. Member States can still issue alerts related to arrest warrants and continue to record refusals of entry or stay. When a match is found, the national SIRENE Bureau contacts its counterpart in the country that issued the alert, sharing additional information and coordinating next steps.
The update takes effect across all connected countries from October 15. Now, national authorities will determine which external information merits converting into a formal alert. The European Commission stated that this enhancement will enable border guards and police to better identify suspects. Officers will receive these alerts during routine checks at borders and within the Schengen zone. Europol will maintain its role in supporting Member States with managing partner intelligence.