categories of data

In the context of perception management and its constituent approaches, data obtained by adversary individuals, groups, intelligence systems, and officials. Such data fall in two categories: a. information — A compilation of data provided by protected or open sources that would provide a substantially complete picture of friendly intentions, capabilities, or activities. b. indicators — Data derived from open sources or from detectable actions that adversaries can piece together or interpret to reach personal conclusions or official estimates concerning friendly intentions, capabilities, or activities. (Note: In operations security, actions that convey indicators exploitable by adversaries, but that must be carried out regardless, to plan, prepare for, and execute activities, are called “observables.”) See also operations security.