Undercover

Operation
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
► Define the importance of undercover operation and its
effectiveness as an investigative technique in the conduct
of background investigation
► Apply the factors to be consider in selecting cover story to
avoid compromise or loss of life during undercover
operation
► Discover the importance of the subject with regards to
Values, Professionalism, Administration, Governance and
Leadership
 DEFINITION
UNDERCOVER – An investigative technique in which the
agent’s/investigator’s official identity is concealed to
accomplish an investigative mission.

NATURAL COVER – Using the individual true identity,

occupation or profession.

ARTIFICIAL COVER – The manufacturing of documents, false

documents, passport, forged document
UNDERCOVER AS AN INVESTIGATIVE TECHNIQUE
An undercover operation is an investigative technique utilizing
an operative who assume fictitious identity or personality to secure
evidence. Consider using an undercover operation only when
conventional technique have not been effective or are not
practical.

Remember
“the compromise of your cover or knowledge of your true identity
could endanger your life or compromise the mission”
 EMPLOYMENT OF UNDERCOVER

1. Often used simultaneously with other aspect of investigations.

2. When it is desirable to conceal interest of investigative agency

in a case undercover is employed in lieu of overt investigation.

3. When the desired information or evidence is not readily

accessible to an overt agent/investigator.

4. When used to hide the fact that an investigation is taking

place.
 EMPLOYMENT OF UNDERCOVER

5. To get first information directly from or about the subject of

investigation.
a. To check security of installation
b. To gain confidence of suspected persons
c. To penetrate subversive organization
d. To verify submitted information from informants
e. To conceal the identity of organization making the
investigation
f. To supplement other investigative activities such as:
- Surveillance
- Locating physical and direct evidence
- Monitor through investigative equipment
 PENETRATION

1. Undercover operation techniques are applied continuously and

not merely over limited period of time

2. Initial penetration is concealed

3. Access is created such that the agent accepted into the target
group or organization
 PENETRATION

4. Effort is continued by the agent until he acquires the desired

placement or position thus gaining complete access to the
objective of the investigative effort

5. Penetration is exceedingly difficult, time consuming and most

delicate form of investigative activity but often most rewarding
 TYPES OF EMPLOYMENT

1. Direct
When an agent, organic to the investigative agency personally
penetrates the target

2. Indirect
When an agent employs other personnel not organic to the
investigative agency to penetrate the target and he directs their
activities
 CONSIDERATIONS AFFECTING THE USE OF
UNDERCOVER

1. Time elements involved

2. Security
a. High Security Classification
b. Handling/Control
c. “Need to know” basis

3. Expenses
 CONSIDERATIONS AFFECTING THE USE OF
UNDERCOVER

4. Level of penetration

5. Authority
Undercover is authorized by person who can assume
responsibility for the possible consequences

6. The undercover operation investigation will fail if personnel

assigned do not have the ability or training to perform the task
 UNDERCOVER OPERATION PRE-PLANNING,
PREPARATION, COORDINATION

1 Determination of the level at which the penetration will be

attempted.

2. Developing appropriate cover.

3. Selection of personnel qualified for the assignment.

4.Consideration of the operational details such as documentation,

entry, reporting, housing, emergencies and withdrawal.

5. Briefing, coaching and rehersal of the personnel selected.

 FACTORS TO BE CONSIDERED IN SELECTING THE
COVER STORY
1. Mutual point of interest
2. Justification for presence
3. Continuous contact
4. Previous and permanent address
5. Deficiency
6. Detailed and complete
7. Necessary freedom from movement
8. Means of communication
9. Financial or social status
10. Safe departure
 GENERAL QUALIFICATION OF UNDERCOVER

1. Thorough knowledge of the area, the people and custom

where agent will operate

2. Preferably single or unmarried

3. Thorough knowledge of the language or dialect spoken in the

area of operation
End of Presentation
 PERFORMANCE TASK
1. Create a scenario/situation of an ideal undercover deployment

2. Create a cover story/fictitious personality to be used in relation

with your scenario/situation in item number 1

3. Provide necessary details and situation to complete an

undercover operation

4. Apply the factors to be consider in selecting cover story to

avoid compromise or loss of life during undercover operation

5. To be submitted not later than Tuesday; October 6, 2020;

1300H