Exciting insight into border protection – Visiting the Federal Police at Frankfurt Airport

In April, our “core police team” from the Public Business Line—consisting of Bernd Kröger, Daniel Pilz, Lucas Schulten, and myself—had the opportunity to engage in an intensive and informative exchange with the Federal Police at Frankfurt Airport.

The aim of the visit was to gain first-hand knowledge of the professional and technical processes involved in border control. Our colleagues from the Federal Police took a lot of time to give us a comprehensive insight into their daily work. The focus was on both automated and manual border controls, which we were able to try out for ourselves in a realistic environment.

An overview of the automated border control concept

The demonstration of automated border controls was particularly impressive. Using identities provided—based on real confiscated documents—we were able to run through various scenarios. Among other things, the system simulated the verification of identity documents, visas, and residence permits. The systems used impressively demonstrated how biometric data and security features are automatically analyzed and compared with the documents presented in order to support the officers.

Border controls are carried out from special control booths, each manned by two federal police officers. One officer monitors the automated checks, while the other carries out manual checks. If the automated process reveals any uncertainties regarding identity, the person concerned is referred for manual follow-up checks. There, for example, fingerprints are compared with the biometric data stored in the document. Depending on the result, various specialized procedures can then be consulted, such as INPOL for search checks or systems for validating visa and residence status. International information systems are also available to the officers.

During the rest of the visit, we were given an overview of the specialist procedures used by the Federal Police. The subsequent discussion was open, constructive, and provided an opportunity for a professional exchange on equal terms. We also discussed how adesso can further deepen and expand its technical expertise. Another topic was how we can pass on technical expertise to new, young colleagues and build it up.

How adesso supports border protection with modern IT

The demands placed on security authorities – especially in the area of border protection – are more complex today than ever before. As an IT service provider with many years of experience in working with internal security authorities, we know how crucial a deep understanding of processes, specialized procedures, and legal frameworks is for developing effective and legally compliant solutions.

Our insights into operational processes clearly show that technological systems are already making a significant contribution to increasing efficiency, transparency, and security. However, it is not enough to provide standard solutions—customized IT concepts are required that can be seamlessly integrated into existing structures and are future-proof at the same time.

We have built up in-depth expertise through our many years of cooperation with the police, customs, state criminal investigation offices, the Federal Criminal Police Office, and other agencies. We are familiar with many of the specialized procedures used in the field and know what really matters in sensitive areas of operation.

This is where adesso takes a holistic approach: from analyzing technical requirements and developing intelligent assistance systems—such as AI applications that comply with data protection regulations—to automating security-critical processes. Our focus is always on the interplay between expertise, technology, and legal certainty.

Conclusion

Our visit showed how deep adesso's understanding of the Federal Police's processes already is – and how much potential there is in closer cooperation. With our technological expertise, industry-specific experience, and commitment to developing future-proof solutions, we are ready to break new ground in digital security and border protection together with the Federal Police.