Competitive intelligence as a factor of warnings crime

In the article the subject of the research are the methods of competitive intelligence; the conditions of companies; the conditions of the competitive environment of companies. Actual is the theoretical analysis of the concept and objectives of competitive intelligence. This activity becomes a powerful tool for market research. Competitive intelligence is currently a rapidly developing discipline (profession), which arose at the intersection of economics, law and special disciplines. Competitiveness and efficiency of company is a key factor. This factor determines the level of living of citizens, the public good. Competition is a necessary condition and the most important way of effective business. The aim of the research is to develop terminology, formulation of features and essence of competitive intelligence, which is recognized as a special kind of activity in a competitive environment. Research methods critical analysis, content analysis, comparative law. Conclusions in the article: the concept and signs of competitive intelligence, purposes, principles, sphere and form of competitive intelligence. It is noted that competitive intelligence is the process of collecting, accumulating, handling and analyzing information on the internal and external environment of companies. Characteristics of competitive intelligence: focusing on the external business environment rather: accumulating information and transforming it into intelligence that can be used by the organization. Unlike illegal industrial espionage, competitive intelligence is a legal and ethical business practice.