SIGINT, or Signal Intelligence, is a type of intelligence gathering method that intercepts and analyzes signals between people, electronic devices or communications systems. This includes both communications signals and electronic signals.
In the context of national security, SIGINT refers to strategies employed by intelligence agencies to eavesdrop on foreign communications for the purpose of espionage. These signals could be virtually anything from mobile phone conversations, email traffic, and even radio broadcast.
Now in the context of cybersecurity, SIGINT is broadly used to uncover information leaks in systems, identify signals that might cause a breach of sensitive data, and prevent cyberattacks.
Related Questions
1. What are the different types of SIGINT?
The major types of Signal Intelligence are COMINT (Communication Intelligence), ELINT (Electronic Intelligence), and FISINT (Foreign Instrumentation Signals Intelligence). COMINT intercepts communications between people, ELINT focuses on electronic signals that are not used in communication, and FISINT deals with the collection of foreign telemetry, radar and other data.
2. How is SIGINT collected?
Gathering SIGINT involves using specialized equipment to intercept signals. This can range from using radio receivers for low-tech operations, to using advanced intercept technology like satellites and ground stations for large scale operations.
3. What is the difference between SIGINT and HUMINT?
SIGINT is gathered from electronic signals and communication between individuals or groups, while HUMINT (Human Intelligence) is gathered from a human source. Basically, SIGINT is reliant on technology, while HUMINT is reliant on human interaction and observation.
4. Who uses SIGINT?
SIGINT is primarily used by intelligence agencies for national security purposes. However, SIGINT is also used in the commercial sector for cybersecurity purposes, and law enforcement agencies may use it during criminal investigations.
5. Is SIGINT legal?
The legality of SIGINT varies by country and circumstance. In general, SIGINT is legal when conducted by government agencies for national security purposes. However, the warrantless collection of SIGINT for law enforcement or commercial purposes often raises privacy concerns and is considered illegal in many jurisdictions.