While most people consider debugging only, Technical Surveillance Countermeasures involve much more in the the realm of locating and neutralizing system security threats. According to the government’s Computer Security Resource Center, the definition of countermeasures in this application is: “Techniques to detect, neutralize, and exploit technical surveillance technologies and hazards that permit the unauthorized access to or removal of information.”
Technical Surveillance Countermeasures More Than Just Debugging
Kimmons Investigative Services also offers “debugging” services; see that information here. However, the broader application of Technical Surveillance Countermeasures includes:
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Protection and Maintenance of Firewalls: These are digital or physical barriers that prevent unauthorized access to networks.
- Assuring Protected Access Control: Mechanisms that assure that resources are only granted to authorized users.
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Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS): Systems that detect and prevent intrusions by analyzing network traffic.
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Data Encryption: Data transformation to conceal its intended meaning and prevent unauthorized access.
While a comprehensive suite of TSCM services includes debugging, it is critical to cover all of the threats with appropriate countermeasures.
What if You Suspect a Technical Surveillance Threat?
The government can help with some sound advice about what to do. At Energy.gov, this is a quote from their documentation:
“Discovery of a technical surveillance device or system or suspicion of the existence of such
a device or system in any HQ or DOE contractor facility in the Washington, DC area must
be reported immediately to the TSCMOM. The report should be made in person but may be
made via a STE phone. The report must be made from outside the facility where the
suspected surveillance exists.
Do not voice the discovery within the immediate area, which
includes the suspect room and all other rooms/areas above, below, and adjacent to it. Secure
the area to preclude any attempts to remove the discovered device(s) and continue normal
activity in the area without discussing classified information. The TSCMOM will provide
further instructions on how to proceed.”
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