The Greek government has introduced a new official protocol that allows undercover agents to operate using fully legal fake identities to infiltrate criminal organizations.

The new rules, published in the Official Government Gazette, allow specially trained officers—and in some cases private individuals acting under their orders—to live a double life funded by the state and protected by law.

The system is inspired by classic undercover operations often seen in films like Donnie Brasco, but it is now formally regulated under Greek law.

How the System Works

Under a joint decision by the Ministries of Finance, Justice, and Citizen Protection, the state can now create complete false identities for undercover agents. These are not simple fake IDs, but fully documented legal personas.

Each undercover agent is given:

• A new identity approved by a senior official
• Official documents such as ID cards, passports, and tax numbers
• Legal permission to carry out financial and commercial activities

The goal is to make the undercover role completely believable inside criminal networks.

Financial and Business Cover

To maintain their cover, agents are allowed to:

• Open bank accounts
• Work with financial institutions, including the Bank of Greece
• Move money and carry out commercial transactions
• Import and export goods if needed

In effect, agents may operate as “fake criminals” with state approval to gain trust inside criminal organizations.

Tools, Housing, and Transport

The protocol also allows agents to use:

• Mobile, landline, satellite phones, and internet services
• Technical support and secure communication systems
• Rental homes, offices, and vehicles
• Land, sea, or air transport if required for their cover

All expenses are covered by special state funds used for urgent or sensitive operations.

Strict Rules and Safeguards

Agents may only receive driving licenses or professional permits if they already legally hold them in real life. The system does not allow agents to gain skills or certifications they do not already possess.

Once an operation ends and the criminal case is closed—either through convictions or dismissal—all documents related to the fake identity are destroyed. Nothing remains that could expose the operation.

A “Clean Exit” After the Mission

After the mission is completed, the undercover identity is erased. Contracts, records, and financial documents are kept briefly in a secure archive and then destroyed by law.

The agent returns to their real life, and the fake persona disappears as if it never existed.