Operations Security (OPSEC)

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Originally written 2020-10-10, updated 2022-10-06 This is the first in a series of articles on some of the intelligence disciplines which looks at current events and situations, how we can try and protect ourselves as well as obtain intelligence and awareness on activities, events and situations.  It will also cover counterintelligence actions to prevent an adversary obtaining intelligence on you. Many people misrepresent OPSEC as ‘operational security’ when it is correctly ‘operations security’. Sun Tzu, arguably one of the greatest military minds, was a Chinese general and military strategist.  The Art of War is a collection of his strategies and nearly all modern warfare has been based on them.  In fact, it has also been used in business because it also contains strategies for diplomacy. Some notable Sun Tzu quotes and excerpts that we should consider as we discuss OPSEC as it relates to preparedness and protecting your family: “All warfare is based on deception.” “To know your Enemy, you must become your Enemy.”  With regards to spies Sun Tzu said: “Spies are the most important element in warfare, because on them depends the army’s ability to move.” “Knowledge of the enemy's dispositions can only be obtained from other...