Intelligence can be collected from various sources. Which one among th

Intelligence can be collected from various sources. Which one among the following is not a reliable source for collection of intelligence?

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Images obtained by satellites

Grapevine communication

Intercepted communication

Information obtained through espionage

Answer is Right!

Answer is Wrong!

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UPSC CISF-AC-EXE – 2024

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Grapevine communication refers to informal transmission of information, rumours, and gossip. While it can sometimes provide leads, the information obtained through grapevine is typically unverified, potentially distorted, and inherently unreliable as a primary source of intelligence. The other options (Satellite images, intercepted communication, espionage) refer to sources and methods that aim to collect factual or sensitive information through technical means or deliberate human effort, which, while requiring analysis and verification, are considered more reliable sources for intelligence gathering compared to informal rumour mills.

Grapevine communication’s lack of structure, source verification, and inherent tendency towards distortion makes it an unreliable source for formal intelligence gathering.

Intelligence agencies categorize sources based on their nature and reliability. Technical sources (like satellite imagery and intercepted communications) and professional human sources (like agents in espionage) are primary means of collecting reliable intelligence. Grapevine communication falls under informal human interaction and is generally treated with caution, requiring extensive cross-verification if used at all.

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