Telecom monitoring

  • Published
  • By Airmen 1st Class Jeffrey Cho and Heather Jones-Proctor
  • 100th ARW Wing Information Assurance
MACDILL AFB, Fla. --  Think Before You Speak.

One of the most vulnerable elements in the Air Force is the human operator, and the inability of that operator to practice good Operations Security (OPSEC). Valuable information is often leaked unintentionally over unsecured telecommunication devices.

Talking around a classified topic and paraphrasing to avoid classified terms does not secure or declassify information. The only way to protect information is to use a STU/STE, SIPRNET, or other secure methods of data transmission.

The Secretary of Defense stated, "I have spoken publicly and privately countless times about the dangers of leaking classified information. It is wrong. It is against the law. It costs the lives of Americans. It diminishes our country's chances for success." You can accidentally leak classified information. Therefore, we challenge you to please think before you speak, and if there is any question whether the information you are discussing is classified, use a secure communication method.

There are various means of reminding Air Force members not to discuss classified information over unclassified means. These include visual aids, DD Form 2056s (the large red sticker that should be on your phone), training and education, and AFI 33-219, Telecommunications Monitoring and Assessment Program (TMAP). IAW AFI 33-219, A3.3.1., the DD Form 2056 is to be affixed to all telecommunications devices such as telephones, faxes, PDA's LMR's and pagers as a simple reminder. Furthermore, all fax covers, web pages, and base telephone directories are to contain a notice not to discuss classified information over unsecured communications media.

Training is another key factor in ensuring our information is protected. Training can be done at commander's call, within the unit or office, or can be presented at annual STU III/STE training. Training should be ongoing to ensure the widest dissemination of information.

Performing assessments is a way to thoroughly examine communications systems and avert classified information leaks and OPSEC vulnerabilities. IAW 33-219, para 13.8.2., units are responsible for conducting quarterly spot-checks on all telecommunications systems to ensure they are properly marked with DD 2056's and Notice and Consent Banners. The assessment provides a final product that defines, investigates, and offers specific procedures for correction of problem areas. Such actions deny adversaries access to critical information and intelligence