Back to Basics in OPSEC

There are multiple approaches to security, as a whole. Building access cards, security guards, Network intrusion detection systems, encryption technologies, COMSEC equipment- all valuable additions to an organizational security program.

At the core, however, the strength of any security program, regardless of the specific discipline, lies within the dedication, abilities and resourcefulness of the personnel involved. And OPSEC is certainly no different. While a large budget and numerous resources will make a program more effective and valuable, it’s the fundamentals of OPSEC- not the technologies or materials- that form the backbone of an OPSEC program.

There’s a temptation, in any security discipline, to rely on technologies or other resources to drive one’s program. But, again, at the core, it’s the people that make a difference. It’s the people that advocate for the discipline, and how readily their target audience adopts it. So, no matter how many posters are printed or reminders are distributed, it’s you, the OPSEC professionals, that are truly important. Remember- know what you need to protect, and protect it. And ensure that those to look to you as experts know to do the same.