The Psychology Behind Human Sources in Intelligence Collection

Event Overview

Human Intelligence is a critical component of intelligence gathering and espionage. It involves the collection of information and intelligence through interpersonal interactions and relationships with individuals who have access to valuable information.

Effective recruitment and management of sources, often referred to as 'handling,' play a vital role in Human Intelligence (HUMINT) operations. A comprehensive understanding of the psychological aspects of human source management is crucial for successful intelligence collection and assessment.

This briefing will touch on the intricacies of human source identification, evaluation, recruitment, and validation. It will also provide illustrative examples of various sources, such as information peddlers, mercenaries, sentinels, and more.

Event Audience

This event is relevant to intelligence professionals and individuals with an interest in security, intelligence, and law enforcement. It will offer valuable insights into the processes of recruiting, verifying, validating, training, directing, and debriefing human sources to fully enhance operational efficiency.

Speaker

Neil Bisson

With over 25 years of experience in national security and Canadian law enforcement, Mr. Bisson has served nearly two decades with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service and ten years with Canada Border Services Agency. In his extensive career within the Canadian Federal government, he's held top-level security clearances and has worked both domestically and internationally. His expertise spans counterterrorism, counter-proliferation, and counterintelligence, making him a versatile analytical specialist. He has contributed to all facets of the intelligence cycle, including threat identification, source management, and the production of security and intelligence reports for government entities. Additionally, Mr. Bisson has excelled in surveillance roles, counter-surveillance, source protection, and clandestine rendezvous in various settings, including public venues and private meetings.