"I find it rewarding to work in a field that people perceive as important and that the public sees as one of the most serious things one can be subjected to. Being able to be part of preventing and investigating this type of crime is very exciting", says Anna.
The field is constantly evolving, and it is important to stay updated on new phenomena and platforms on the internet, she explains. The job is extensive and varied, and you get to be involved in the investigation from start to finish.
It is partly office work where you handle larger cases. Then you conduct interviews and review seizures. But we also participate in operations, arrests, and searches. I really enjoy that it is both office work and a lot of fieldwork. It makes the days very exciting and unpredictable.
Is it a bit like the classic movie scenes where you storm in and seize various computers?
"Haha, yes, a bit. We often seize electronic devices, and you have to make some assessments on the spot about what to take with you and what not to."
Looking Forward to Work Every Day
"I never quite know what to expect when I go to work. Either you might get a new case handed to you, or you might make discoveries in ongoing cases that lead to new investigative steps. I look forward to work every day."
Although she finds the job both rewarding and exciting, it can also be challenging.
"It is a very grim field. Much of the job involves reviewing abuse material. These are sometimes heavy reviews. For me, it is about remembering why we do what we do. We do this because it is important for someone else", she says and adds:
"For me, there is little more important than working to prevent child abuse. I think most people perceive being subjected to abuse as one of the worst things one can experience. Therefore, it feels very meaningful when you have conducted a good investigation."
Some days can be demanding, but Anna says she has a team where they can talk and process what they see and experience at work.
"We have an incredibly good work environment, and that is also one of the best things about the job. There is a low threshold for talking about things. We also collaborate closely on cases and discuss how to do things to make them as efficient as possible, but also to ensure good quality in what we do."
Should Be Curious About the Field
Anyone who has studied to become a police officer can apply for a position as an investigator in the department for internet-related child abuse.
But if you want special competence, Politihøgskolen offers further education in, among other things, Investigation of Sexual Abuse - Digital Abuse and Digital Traces, and Investigation of Sexual Abuse - Children and Particularly Vulnerable Adults.
Do you have any tips for those who want to work in the same field?
"If you want experience in a specific field, you have to dare to throw yourself into things and be curious. You must want to gain the experience required. It can also be wise to keep up with technological developments and have a little interest in this."