Cause for Concern (Counterintelligence) (fwd)

[William Knowles <wk () C4I ORG>]

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Fri, 15 Sep 2000 19:14:53 -0400
From: Alan Simpson <news () comlinks com>
Reply-To: intelforum () his com
To: intelforum () his com
Subject: Cause for Concern (Counterintelligence)

The American Society of Industrial Security has just had it's mammoth
bash and conference in Orlando, from last Sunday till Thursday. Around
16,000 attendees from all over the world, the key industrial security,
and counter intelligence officers from the private sector, and many
government agencies.

I was fortunate to interview over a hundred during the exhibition and
conference, and met many more. The general mood was we live in
dangerous times, America is hemorrhaging, and trade secrets are being
ripped off at an alarming rate. Most cite insiders, and point to
Clinton as a major reason why there is no loyalty, integrity or
respect anymore.

Overwhelming grades for the FBI, DOE and CIA were a resounding "F"
with the FBI getting a minus F (if that is possible). NSA were not
seen as a major problem, despite the publicity for "Echelon", and many
were complimentary over their ability to eavesdrop on global hotspots.
"Sneaky Bastards, but we need them" was one comment. Most thought they
were just doing their jobs, and many commented on that it is your
responsibility for the security of your traffic, not anyone else's.

The CIA did not fare that well, and many made humor over their
constant failures. Their image in the private sector appears somewhat
tarnished.

The FBI on the other hand caused many to be very vocal, for Waco, Ruby
Ridge, and Los Alamos. They have a SERIOUS credibility problem. I was
amazed that some of those vocal about the FBI under Clinton, were ex
FBI veterans! Few had good words on Janet Reno, and as we have ladies
in the group I will not repeat what some suggested she do!

The large British contingent to a person, were very critical over
Blair, and "LegoLand". The Idiot Blair was regarded by all as a
"Control Freak". Most were looking forward to the Human Rights
challenges in October.

Overall a very glum perception of a peacetime intelligence and
counterintelligence effort.

Finally a record number of companies were creating, or planning to
enter the intelligence/counterintelligence business, here in the USA.
Total lack of confidence in the existing product from government
agencies was by far the main reason. One footnote that agencies might
want to consider, not everyone with responsibility for the nations
future, and it's wealth is TS or S cleared ex-govt or mil types. Be
Careful, when planning briefings, and conferences, you may
compartmentalize and classify yourself out of business!

Alan Simpson
news () wbrief com



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