// THREAT DETECTION AND DATA PRIVACY TERM
HUMINT
HUMINT, short for Human Intelligence, is information collected from human sources. This can involve conversations, interviews, interrogations, or reports from spies and informants.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
Human Intelligence (HUMINT) is a core intelligence collection discipline involving the gathering of information by means of interpersonal contact and human sources, in contrast to technical collection disciplines like SIGINT or GEOINT. HUMINT operations include clandestine activities, espionage, interrogation, and debriefing to acquire data on adversary intentions, capabilities, and plans.
BACKGROUND
Human intelligence is intelligence-gathering by means of human sources and interpersonal communication. It is distinct from more technical intelligence-gathering disciplines, such as signals intelligence (SIGINT), imagery intelligence (IMINT) and measurement and signature intelligence (MASINT). HUMINT can be conducted in a variety of ways, including via espionage, reconnaissance, interrogation, and witness interviews. Although associated with military and intelligence agencies, HUMINT can also apply in various civilian sectors such as law enforcement.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Human Intelligence
- espionage
- source operations
- clandestine collection
- field intelligence
- interpersonal intelligence
USAGE NOTE
While often dramatized in fiction, HUMINT is a foundational and high-risk discipline for understanding the 'why' behind an adversary's actions.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to HUMINT.
Developer of the Gotham platform, a data fusion and analysis tool used extensively by intelligence and defense agencies to integrate and analyze information from disparate sources, including human intelligence reports.
A major government contractor that provides mission technology and expertise for intelligence operations. They develop and deploy systems for source management, intelligence analysis, and operational planning to support HUMINT missions.
A multinational defense and aerospace company that develops a wide range of intelligence analysis software, secure communication systems, and C4ISR solutions that help manage and exploit intelligence from all sources, including HUMINT.
Provides a security intelligence platform that automates the collection and analysis of data from open, technical, and dark web sources. This intelligence is used to provide context, vet sources, and identify threats for HUMINT analysts.
Creator of Silo for Research, a secure and anonymous web browser used by intelligence professionals for online investigations. The technology allows collectors and analysts to conduct digital HUMINT and OSINT without exposing their identity or infrastructure.
Develops a web intelligence platform that automates the collection and analysis of Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) and Social Media Intelligence (SOCMINT). Their tools are used in HUMINT for source vetting, target development, and situational awareness.
A threat intelligence company specializing in data collection from illicit online communities on the deep and dark web. Their platform enables analysts to monitor and engage with human threat actors, a form of digital HUMINT.
A technology-focused defense and intelligence contractor that develops solutions for data analytics, signals intelligence, and cyber operations. They create custom tools that help process, analyze, and fuse intelligence from various disciplines, including HUMINT.