IP: interesting paper to scan -- STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT: THE

[Dave Farber <farber () central cis upenn edu>]

http://www.fas.org/pub/gen/fas/cp/swett.html


STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT:  THE INTERNET


Prepared by 


Mr. Charles Swett
Assistant for Strategic Assessment 


Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and
Low-Intensity Conflict (Policy Planning) 


17 July 1995 
Abstract


The political process is moving onto the Internet. Both within the United
States and internationally, individuals, interest groups, and even nations
are using the Internet to find each other, discuss the issues, and further
their political goals. The Inte rnet has also played an important role in
recent conflicts. As a result, overseas segments of the Internet can be a
useful tool for DoD, both for gathering and for disseminating information.
By monitoring public message traffic and alternative news source s from
around the world,
early warning of impending significant developments could be developed, in
advance of more traditional means of indications and warning. Commentary
placed on the Internet by observers on the scene of low-intensity conflicts
overse as could be useful to U.S. policymaking. During larger scale
conflicts, when other conventional channels are disrupted, the Internet can
be the only available means of communication into and out of the affected
areas. Internet messages originating within regions under authoritarian
control could provide other useful intelligence. Public messages conveying
information about the intent of overseas groups prone to disrupting U.S.
military operations can
provide important counterintelligence. The Internet cou ld also be used
offensively as an additional medium in psychological operations campaigns
and to help achieve unconventional warfare objectives. Used creatively as an
integral asset, the Internet can facilitate many DoD operations and activities.