Within Military and Para-Military circles, it’s widely (and correctly) accepted that OPSEC is a necessary component of warfare. Within Organizations and Civilian Groups, it’s often (and, again, correctly) accepted that OPSEC is a necessary component of business planning and operations. However, this is often regarded as a hypothetical gain, with no real demonstrable Return On Investment.
The following OPSEC Case Studies are intended to discuss real-life examples of the gains associated with OPSEC, or the losses associated with the lack thereof.
Andrew J. May
During WWII, US Representative Andrew J. May allegedly provides valuable intelligence to the enemy in a newspaper interview.
General Patton
Feared and respected by the enemy, General Patton unwillingly takes part in one of the greatest deceptions of WWII.
George Washington
“Known OPSEC Practitioner” George Washington knew that secrecy and espionage were critical parts of winning the Revolutionary War.
Lockheed Martin and Disney
How Disney helped protect critical manufacturing from a feared invasion.
P.G.T. Beauregard
Outnumbered and surrounded, Civil War General P.G.T. Beauregard’s elaborate hoax allows his men to escape certain death.
Patrick McHenry
An archived newspaper article alleging that a US Representative’s video helped enemy forces better target friendly forces.
Shia LaBeouf vs 4chan
Actor Shia LaBeouf’s political statement turns into an international game of capture the flag.
McDonald’s Drive-Thru
How the military’s security rules led to the first McDonald’s drive-thru in 1975.