The quest for illicit intelligence is a never-ending threat; from criminals trying to obtain information for financial gain, to sophisticated state-sponsored adversaries looking for political and military gains. While we do not always know what kind of threats are around us, a robust security policy encompassing physical security, cyber security and protection from electronic surveillance is needed to ensure secrets remain secret. The security of your building, your Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF), your private conversations, your plans and secrets can all be compromised by surveillance devices; from small, inexpensive GSM/UMTS bugs to bespoke devices created by state actors.

Modern surveillance technologies are highly discreet, highly capable, and very difficult to locate. Even the smallest device can pack a considerable amount of technology. These devices can be integrated into USB cables, light bulbs, or any number of other common objects. When not in use, such a device can lie dormant. If connected to a mobile network, it may only need to “shake hands” momentarily once every 8 hours (network defined); at other times it remains RF invisible.

Without good OPSEC (Operational Security), undetected RF surveillance and data transmissions can allow an adversary to:

• Conduct ISR operations against the organization
• Collect and disclose classified information
• Hijack critical C2 signals that can cause loss of finances, assets, or even life
• Obtain money and financial data
• Compromise law enforcement and intelligence agency operations