Is the Term “Operational” or “Operations” Security?
Arion (Pat) Pattakos, OCP, CPP
All too often we hear the term Operational Security when clearly the reference is to Operations Security. Some of us old-timers give a shudder when we hear the term Operational Security used in the context of Operations Security. Why you say? Well because many of us believe they are not the same thing. Every profession has its professional lexicon and so does Operations Security (aka OPSEC). Furthermore, it’s incumbent upon professionals to use standard and agreed to terminology to ensure effective communication and comprehension.
Interestingly, while OPSEC is defined in the "DOD Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms” (JP 1-02) there is no definition for Operational Security. When you do an internet search using the term Operational Security, it usually reflects usage associated with cyber-security.
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