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Security Intelligence - A Definite Process Is Necessary To Collect Intelligence

NCJ Number
85120
Journal
Journal of Security Administration Volume: 5 Issue: 1 Dated: (June 1982) Pages: 33-40
Author(s)
N R Bottom
Date Published
1982
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This essay on the collection of security intelligence discusses techniques to deal with espionage, essential elements of intelligence, types of intelligence reports, classic types of intelligence, and typical weaknesses in intelligence gathering.
Abstract
A definite process or method is required to gain intelligence. Raw information is not synonymous with intelligence. The essential elements of the intelligence process are direction, collection, interpretation, evaluation, collation, analysis, and dissemination (report writing). Types of intelligence reports are (1) basic intelligence reports, which are indepth analytic efforts to relate all data which might become important later; (2) current intelligence reports, which focus on an immediate problem, must be done hurriedly, and cover less material; and (3) speculative-evaluation reports, which call for definite conclusions about future events. Creation of a special security intelligence unit requires an understanding of the four classic types of intelligence; strategic, tactical, counter-intelligence, and security. Strategic intelligence involves the extensive study required for basic research reports; tactical intelligence consists of collecting intelligence information and preparing current intelligence reports; counter-intelligence and security seek to deny access to unfriendly elements. All of these classic types of intelligence are interrelated in the operation of an intelligence enterprise. All types of intelligence have two distinct areas of weakness; one occurs at the information processing stage, and the second involves media exposure of intelligence activities. Ten references are listed.