Fundamentals & Core Concepts Flashcards
7 cards from real CPI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Fundamentals & Core Concepts flashcards as text
When conducting open-source intelligence (OSINT) gathering, an investigator must be most careful to:
Answer: Verify information from multiple independent sources
OSINT requires cross-referencing data from multiple independent sources to confirm accuracy and prevent acting on false or outdated information.
The principle of 'minimization' in electronic surveillance means:
Answer: Limiting interception to communications pertinent to the investigation
Minimization requires that investigators limit the interception and retention of communications to those relevant to the investigation, protecting uninvolved parties' privacy.
An investigator conducting interviews should use open-ended questions primarily to:
Answer: Allow subjects to provide narrative responses without being led
Open-ended questions encourage free narration, revealing information the investigator may not have anticipated and reducing the risk of leading the witness.
In workplace investigations, the 'Garrity Warning' is relevant when interviewing:
Answer: Public sector employees who may face criminal charges
Garrity v. New Jersey protects public employees from being compelled to give self-incriminating statements under threat of job loss when the statements may be used in criminal proceedings.
Which factor MOST distinguishes a criminal investigation from a civil investigation?
Answer: The burden of proof and legal standard applied
Criminal investigations must meet the 'beyond reasonable doubt' standard, while civil investigations operate under the lower 'preponderance of evidence' standard.
A subject under surveillance enters a private residence. The investigator SHOULD:
Answer: Maintain surveillance from a legal vantage point outside and document the time of entry
Investigators must never enter private property without authorization; they should maintain legal observation positions and document all observable activities.
The concept of 'reasonable suspicion' in private investigations typically refers to:
Answer: Articulable facts that justify initiating an investigation or detaining a suspect briefly
Reasonable suspicion requires specific, articulable facts that lead a reasonable person to suspect criminal or policy-violating activity, justifying further investigative action.