Crossword Genius

Tip off old prince - essentially FBI's given up (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

alert

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'tip off' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for alert that I've seen before include "Watchful and bright" , "Quick to notice" , "'Attentive, vigilant (5)'" , "alarm" , "'Attentive, watchful (5)'" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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