Operations Security (OPSEC) is an analytic process used to deny adversaries access to information, typically unclassified or Controlled Unclassified Information, regarding our intentions and capabilities. This is achieved by identifying, controlling, and protecting indicators associated with our planning processes or operations. OPSEC does not replace other security disciplines; rather, it supplements them. Practicing OPSEC is essential for ensuring the safety of our employees and the smooth execution of Department operations. 

OPSEC Program

The OPSEC Program focuses on training, awareness, and verifying effectiveness through assessments, in accordance with National Security Presidential Memorandum-28. Each Departmental office or operating unit has an assigned OPSEC Program Coordinator responsible for identifying the critical information necessary for employee safety and mission success, as well as promoting OPSEC awareness. Employees can contact their Field Servicing Security Office (FSSO) to contact their OPSEC Program Coordinator.

Importance of OPSEC

It is crucial for employees to be aware of the critical information pertinent to their organization to adequately protect against potential harm to the DOC or its personnel. Everyone possesses information that could be valuable to adversaries. Therefore, it is important to ensure that those requesting or soliciting information have a legitimate need for it. By practicing OPSEC, we can effectively mitigate risks and safeguard our operations.

OPSEC is critically important to the Department of Commerce for several key reasons:

Protecting Sensitive Information: The Department of Commerce handles a vast amount of sensitive information, including economic data, trade secrets, and proprietary business information. OPSEC helps safeguard this information from adversaries who could use it to gain an unfair advantage or disrupt economic activities.

Ensuring National Economic Security: The Department plays a crucial role in maintaining the economic security of the nation. By protecting critical information related to trade, industry, and technology, OPSEC helps prevent economic espionage and ensures the stability and integrity of the national economy.

Supporting Mission Success: The Department's missions, such as promoting economic growth, fostering innovation, and ensuring fair trade, relieve confidentiality of certain information. OPSEC ensures that critical details remain secure, thereby supporting the successful execution of these missions.

Preventing Industrial Espionage: The Department of Commerce works closely with businesses and industries that are often targets of industrial espionage. OPSEC helps protect proprietary information and intellectual property, ensuring that businesses can operate securely and competitively.

Enhancing Employee Safety: Employees of the Department may handle sensitive information that could make them targets for adversaries. OPSEC helps protect employees by ensuring that critical information is not inadvertently disclosed, thereby reducing the risk of targeting.

Complementing Other Security Measures: OPSEC supplements other security disciplines within the Department, providing an additional layer of protection focused on information control. This comprehensive approach to security helps mitigate risks and safeguard operations.

OPSEC Six Step Cycle and Examples:

1. Analyze Threats
   1. Purpose: Identify potential adversaries and their capabilities, intentions, and tactics.
   2. Examples: Foreign intelligence services, hackers, competitors, and/or insiders.
2. Identify Critical Information
   1. Purpose: Determine what information is critical to the organization’s mission and could be valuable to adversaries.
   2. Examples: Mission plans, personnel details, operational capabilities, and vulnerabilities.
3. Analyze Vulnerabilities
   1. Purpose: Assess the organization’s operations to identify weaknesses that could be exploited by adversaries.
   2. Examples: Unsecured communications, lack of employee awareness, or inadequate physical security.
4. Assess Risks
   1. Purpose: Evaluate the potential impact of identified vulnerabilities being exploited by adversaries.
   2. Examples: Loss of sensitive information, operational disruption, or harm to personnel.
5. Apply Countermeasures
   1. Purpose: Implement measures to mitigate identified risks and protect critical information.
   2. Examples: Enhancing security protocols, conducting employee training, or improving physical security measures.
6. Assess the Effectiveness
   1. Purpose: Continuously monitor the effectiveness of countermeasures and reassess the threat environment.
   2. Examples: Regular assessments, inspections, and updates to security policies and procedures.

These steps form a continuous cycle, ensuring that OPSEC measures are up-to-date and effective in protecting the organization’s critical information.

By implementing OPSEC measures, each Departmental office or operating unit within the Department of Commerce can effectively protect sensitive information, ensure operational integrity, and support their specific missions. This collective effort enhances the overall security and effectiveness of the Department.  

Each Departmental office or operating unit has designated an OPSEC Program Coordinator. If you are unsure who your OPSEC Program Coordinator is, please contact your Field Servicing Security Office.

OPSEC Links and Resources

OPSEC Training and Resources: 

Office of the Director of National Intelligence – National Operations Security Program

2025 NCSC OPSEC Training Schedule

OPSEC Awareness for Military Members, DOD Employees and Contractors GS130.16

DOD Annual Security Awareness Refresher Flashcards | Quizlet

Department Critical Information List

OPSEC Travel Awareness:

Foreign Travel Briefing Program | U.S. Department of Commerce

NCSC Awareness Materials

Counterintelligence — FBI

DVIDS - Video - 240118-N-PD810-1001

Agency Partners: 

National Counterintelligence and Security Center