16 September 2000

See Alan Simpson's Web site, Washington Brief: http://wbrief.com

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

The American Society of Industrial Security has just had its 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 Top Secret- or Secret-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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