Human Intelligence and Counterintelligence — Foundation and Collection Methods
Foundation
HUMINT Definition
Human intelligence is a category of intelligence derived from:
- Information collected and provided by human sources and collectors
- Where the human being is the primary collection instrument
Counterintelligence Definition
CI Definition
Counterintelligence is information gathered and activities conducted to protect against such threats.
Four Primary HUMINT Collection Methods
4 HUMINT Collection Methods.
- Interrogation
- Source Operations
- Debriefing
- Document and Media Exploitation
Interrogation
Interrogation Definition
Interrogation is the systematic effort to procure information to answer specific collection requirements by:
- Direct questioning techniques
- Indirect questioning techniques
…of a person who is in the custody of the forces conducting the questioning.
Proper Questioning
Proper Questioning
Proper questioning of enemy combatants, enemy prisoners of war, or other detainees by trained and certified Department of Defense interrogators may result in information provided either:
- Willingly
- Unwittingly
Source Operations
Source Operations Foundation
Designated and fully trained military human intelligence collection personnel may develop information through the elicitation of sources.
Three Source Types
3 Source Types.
- "Walk-in" sources who, without solicitation, make the first contact with human intelligence personnel
- Developed sources who are met over a period of time and provide information based on operational requirements
- Unwitting persons with access to sensitive information
Debriefing
Debriefing Definition
Debriefing is the process of questioning cooperating human sources to satisfy intelligence requirements, consistent with applicable law.
Source Status
Source Status
The source:
- Usually is NOT in custody
- Is usually willing to cooperate
Debriefing Locations
Debriefing Locations
Debriefing may be conducted at:
- All echelons
- All operational environments
Debriefing Methods
Debriefing Methods
Through debriefing, the following methods may obtain information from a variety of human sources:
- Face-to-face meetings
- Conversations
- Elicitation
Document and Media Exploitation (DOMEX)
DOMEX Foundation
Captured documents and media, when properly processed and exploited, may provide valuable information, such as:
- Adversary plans and intentions
- Force locations
- Equipment capabilities
- Logistical status
Captured Documents Definition
Captured Documents Definition
The category of "captured documents and media" includes:
- All media capable of storing fixed information
- Computer storage material
DOMEX Conduct
DOMEX Conduct
This operation is NOT a primary human intelligence function but may be conducted by any intelligence personnel with appropriate language support.