The two papers claim that the key attributes of an organized crime group are that it has a hierarchical structure, continues its illegal activities over an extended period of time, is self-perpetuating, and engages in diversified criminal activities for profit. The papers do not regard transnational and organized crime as synonymous. Transnational crimes may be committed by organized crime groups, but are also committed by offenders who are not members of organized crime groups. The articles discuss the following transnational crimes: drug trafficking; alien smuggling; money laundering; financial fraud; bank fraud and threats to international banks and financial institutions; counterfeiting; crimes involving intellectual property; corrupt and criminal business practices; illegal arms trafficking; international car theft rings; and prostitution. The articles briefly describe some organized crime groups, including La Cosa Nostra, the Boryokudan, Triads, South American drug cartels, and Russian organized crime groups. United States domestic law enforcement responses employ investigative techniques such as electronic surveillance, undercover operations, and informants. Prosecution techniques and weapons include the RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations) statute theory of prosecution; organized crime strike force units; witness security; forfeiture; money laundering statutes; and sentencing laws. In addition the United States participates in international activities such as extradition, Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties, expanding the presence of United States law enforcement agents abroad, and international training.