The NSA, also known as the National Security Agency, is a government agency in the United States. Established on November 4, 1952, the NSA is responsible for monitoring, collecting, and processing data and information concerning foreign entities in national defense’s interest. This agency specializes in code making and code breaking, also known as cryptography. It aims to prevent foreign adversaries from gaining access to classified national security information while ensuring U.S. government can access vital foreign intel.
Related Questions
1. What are the main functions of the NSA?
The NSA’s primary functions involve global monitoring, collection, decoding, translation, and analysis of information and data for foreign intelligence and counterintelligence. They also protect U.S. government communications and information systems.
2. How does the NSA collect data?
Data collection by the NSA is done through a range of methods, including interception of email content and metadata, keyword alerts, phone tapping, examination of internet data and more.
3. Who oversees the operations of the NSA?
The Secretary of Defense and the Director of National Intelligence oversee the operations of the NSA.
4. Is the NSA’s data collection legal?
While its practices have been controversial, the NSA operates under the country’s law. The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) and USA PATRIOT Act are often quoted as legal grounds for its operations. The agency is also subject to oversight from both political branches of government.
5. Does the NSA only work within the United States?
No, the NSA operates globally. As a branch of the Department of Defense, the NSA can be involved in actions anywhere in the world where U.S. national security interests are at stake.