This new book provides a practical, introductory guide for anyone working in the area of covert investigation. It contains all the relevant legislation, codes of practice and case-law relating to covert investigation methods and examines the issues that investigators need to consider when deploying such investigative tools, concentrating on the full implications of RIPA with regards to daily, routine policing activity. The book is designed to help police officers improve the quality of RIPA applications, ensure that applications for cover investigation are made only in appropriate circumstances, and to help investigators apply the law and procedure correctly in order to minimise procedural challenges at court.