Practice OPSEC during holidays

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. P.N. Brown
  • 94th Public Affairs
DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. --  "But I only told one person and they promised not to tell anyone." 

Ever heard this comment from someone you just told something to in confidence? No matter how much you trust that person once the words leave your mouth they're in the air and left out there for all to hear and know. 

Security is the same thing; you have to think about what you're saying before you tell someone and trust it won't go any further. Operations Security (OPSEC) is simply keeping potential enemies from discovering critical Department of Defense information such as when units are mobilizing, where they are going and what they will be doing. 

There are many people, both potentially friends and foe, who want this information. They will not only pursue you as the military member but also your family. With current world situations, security has to be in the forefront of our minds. 

Remember these simple tips that can make all the difference in your well-being and your family's safety. 

1. Keep a low profile; don't advertise that you are in the military. Blend in. 

2. Be unpredictable. Vary your routine so people can't track you. 

3. Be alert for anything suspicious or out of place. 

4. Avoid giving unnecessary personal details to anyone unless their identity can be verified. 

5. Be cautious about giving out information regarding family travel plans or security measures and procedure. 

6. Report all suspicious activity and packages to police. Don't ignore things that could be important. Know those emergency numbers and how to get in touch with the right people. 

7. Be alert, be careful and protect critical information. Where you discuss this information is just as important as with whom you discuss it. Anyone who is determined can easily collect data from cordless and cellular phones and even baby monitors can be inexpensive receivers. 

8. Always lock your car and part in well-light areas. Something this simple can save your life. 

9. Don't travel alone if you can possibly help it. If you must, know your route, travel with purpose and have a cell phone. 

10. Destroy all envelopes or other items that show your name, rank and other personal information. 

While some of these things may seem like simple common sense, they work and are tried and true tips that increase security. Be aware and be wise to keep safety
first in your day-to-day life. 

Holiday OPSEC 

In addition to the above, here are a few holiday tips to protect yourself from becoming a holiday victim. 

1. Credit card/ATM numbers. Be wary of "shoulder surfers - someone could use a cell phone camera to steal your pin number when you take cash from an ATM or
pay for items with your credit card. Make sure to put receipts in a safe place or destroy them properly. 

2. Don't advertise high value gift items through boxes left in the trash. Break down the boxes, throw them in a bag or put them out just before trash collection time. 

3 . When socializing at parties over the holidays remember--loose lips sink ships--don't talk "shop" around those who don't have a need to know, and be wary of
attempts to elicit information, even from friends and family.