SNA Methodology
At its core, RITHMS platform will be based on Social Network Analysis (SNA). SNA methodology allows for the mapping and analysis of social connections between individuals and groups of individuals by leveraging graph theory. In literature, SNA is defined as a structural approach in the field of social sciences based on the study of the interactions among social actors. The relationships considered for SNA are usually those linking individual human beings. Still, they may also involve other entities, such as objects, animals, or places, when they carry important meaning to the underlying social networks.
SNA is a valuable tool in criminal investigation, particularly in the fight against organised crime. SNA enables the identification and understanding of social networks and the connections among members of criminal organisations, shedding light on the dynamics and operations of these groups. It allows for identifying potential lines of inquiry and uncovering key actors or network vulnerabilities.
An innovative digital platform
RITHMS aims to build and validate a prototype digital intelligence resource specifically designed to investigate the illicit trafficking of cultural property. The innovative RITHMS SNA-based platform will stand out for interoperability and multifunctionality, enabling the identification, evaluation, and analysis of relationships between criminal and non-criminal actors. By outlining the networks engaged in the illicit trade of cultural property and their potential evolution, the platform will enhance the accessibility and accuracy of information available to law enforcement agencies. This advanced tool will empower authorities in their efforts to combat illegal trade and better understand the dynamics guiding such criminal groups.
A Social Network Graph (SNG) will visually represent the SNA conducted by the RITHMS platform following the users' inputs and queries. Within an SNG, the entities under scrutiny feature as nodes, while the connections between nodes, which represent the relationships between entities, are depicted as lines or edges. These relationships are commonly referred to as ties or links. By displaying these entities and their relationships visually, an SNG depicts the (criminal) network under investigation.
RITHMS SNA platform will incorporate a comprehensive set of data collection modules to enhance the width and depth of information available to the end users. Automation will play a key role in gathering and correlating data from various sources.
That will encompass existing open-source datasets, mobile traffic data, satellite imagery analysis reports (connected to the Copernicus program), and a database powered by custom-developed crawler software designed to collect objects being auctioned or sold online. By connecting and integrating these diverse data sources, RITHMS SNA platform will provide a more comprehensive understanding of cultural goods trafficking networks and dependable intelligence for the investigative work of law enforcement agencies.
