Dual-Use Dilemma
Definition
The situation where the same data or method that helps forensic scientists identify illegal trade could also help traffickers design around the detection method, creating a tension between scientific openness and operational security.
- Field
- Wildlife forensic science ethics
- Tension
- Scientific openness vs operational security
- Risk
- Detection methods reused by traffickers to evade them
Common questions
How do wildlife forensic scientists manage the dual-use dilemma in practice?+
Many labs and journals restrict publication of certain detection thresholds or instrument-specific method details, sharing them instead through vetted enforcement channels rather than open literature, to slow adaptation by traffickers.
Is the dual-use dilemma unique to wildlife forensics?+
No, it is a recognised issue across forensic science and security research generally, wherever publishing a detection or identification method also teaches those being detected how to defeat it.
Related terms
- Advocate Expert
- An expert who argues a position in the interests of the retaining party rather than providing an objective assessment. Considered unethical in...
- Confidential Informant Intelligence
- Information derived from a source whose identity must be protected. In forensic practice, this intelligence may inform what a scientist is asked...
- Impartiality
- The obligation of a forensic expert to present findings honestly regardless of which party benefits. Impartiality does not mean ignoring the context...
- Neutral Expert (Court's Expert)
- An expert whose primary duty is to assist the court with scientific matters, regardless of who is paying. In several jurisdictions, this...
- SWFS Code of Ethics
- The Society for Wildlife Forensic Science's professional conduct rules, requiring honesty, transparency about limitations, impartiality, refusal of inappropriate pressure, and separation of...