Customs information system
The Customs Information System ( ZIS ) is a system that enables national customs authorities to publish information (e.g. about smugglers , dealers, etc.) and to forward it to other offices. It is built by the European Union (EU). It is hoped that customs offices will be able to take action against illegal activities more quickly and that controls will be carried out in a shorter time. There are a total of 15 countries that use the system together.
Management of the information
The ZIS is divided into two databases . One involves community action , the other is intergovernmental action . The information from both databases can be surveyed with a search engine. All data are checked annually by the relevant customs authorities to determine whether they need to be saved further.
The following information is stored in the databases:
- Were
- Mode of Transport
- Companies
- people
- Trends in Fraud Practices
- Availability of expertise
- Vehicle registration details
Storage of personal data
The entry of personal data is only possible to a limited extent. The data must not contain details of fraud and investigations.
The following information may be saved:
- Name , maiden name , first name , other names
- Date and place of birth
- nationality
- gender
- Special objective and permanent physical characteristics
- Reason for entering data
- proposed actions
- Warning code with reference to previous experience with armament, violence or risk of escape
Management of the system
The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) is currently involved in the development of the system and will also be responsible for its management.
Access to the ZIS
Only designated authorities (mainly customs authorities) of the 15 member states have free access to the ZIS. Other users can also access the system with prior approval.
