Finland Proposes Expanded Intel Powers

Finland has proposed expanding civilian intelligence powers, including new capabilities for gathering information on state-sponsored threats, as part of a draft law sent out for public consultation.

The proposal, issued by the Ministry of the Interior citing ‘the changed security environment,’ aims to update existing legislation in response to changes in the security environment, developments in cyber operations, and Finland’s membership in NATO. Authorities say the changes are intended to improve the ability to respond to threats to national security.

A key element of the proposal is the introduction of new computer network exploitation powers targeting state actors. These would allow the Finnish Security and Intelligence Service to collect information from information systems linked to activities considered a serious threat. This could include accessing stored data and monitoring communications within those systems.

The draft law would also permit authorities to prevent the use of such systems or interfere with their operation if they are located outside Finland but used in ways that threaten Finnish security.

Changes are also proposed to existing network traffic intelligence rules. These updates are intended to make intelligence collection more effective while clarifying legal conditions and safeguards related to fundamental and human rights. The proposal includes provisions to allow undercover activities in information networks even when individual targets cannot be identified.

Additional measures would permit sampling and temporary seizure during site exploitation. Authorities say this would support the assessment of hazardous substances or targets linked to hybrid threats.

The proposal also assigns a new supporting role to the Finnish Border Guard, allowing it to assist intelligence operations that require its expertise. This is intended to improve coordination between agencies involved in national security.

The draft includes changes to document classification rules. Non-disclosure periods for foreign policy documents held by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and the Office of the President would be extended to 40 years, while documents related to intelligence and internal security would be classified for up to 60 years.

The consultation period for the proposal will run until late May.