The federal government has expanded undercover operations, with staff from at least 40 agencies assuming false identities to expose corruption, The New York Times reported. Undercover work used to be the domain of federal law enforcement, but a more aggressive approach to fighting crimes such as identity theft has put more undercover teams in the field. Medicare investigators sometimes pose as patients to gather evidence against providers. And undercover agents have met with suspected money launderers. "Done right, undercover work can be a very effective law enforcement method, but it carries serious risks and should only be undertaken with proper training, supervision and oversight," former FBI agent Michael German told The Times. "Ultimately it is government deceitfulness and participation in criminal activity, which is only justifiable when it is used to resolve the most serious crimes." Article