Forensic profiling is the study of trace evidence in order to develop information which can be used by police authorities.
They may increase knowledge in broader domains linked to security that deal with investigation, intelligence, surveillance, or risk analysis (Geradts & Sommer 2008, p. 26).
The data available to law enforcement agencies are divided into two categories (Geradts & Sommer 2008, p. 15): The use of profiling techniques represents threats to the privacy of the individual and to the protection of fundamental freedoms.
An example from the book, “The Psychology and Sociology of Wrongful Convictions: Forensic Science Reform,” there was a profiling error, in which this woman was raped and slaughtered by a serial killer.
For instance, in Europe the European Convention on Human Rights provides a number of instruments for the Protection of Individuals with regard to Automatic Processing of Personal Data.