Topical Areas Covered in Continuing Education Programme

1. Advanced Technology: A general understanding of various advanced technologies is important to an agent. At any time an agent could be called on to destroy an installation or particular equipment which is of a highly technical nature.

2. Computer Security: The professional must have the ability to break into computer systems for the purpose of retrieving confidential information. This is a commonly used skill that is a critical part of espionage, especially in a time where computers are predominantly used to store information. One of the primary functions of an intelligence agency is using data that is processed into information and that is further analysed and turned into knowledge.

3. Counter Surveillance: The professional must have the ability to detect and disable the surveillance capabilities of any parties involved in an operation. Although this would usually include the use of technical apparatus, there are many ways to foil a surveillance operation without using any physical equipment. This might include speaking in code or using the environment to hide communications.

4. Disguise: The professional must be knowledgeable in the art of disguise. Whether for personal use to cloak their identity or to identify a suspect that is using a disguise - knowledge about these techniques is critical. Although quite simple to learn, it is difficult to become an expert in disguise. It is crucial for a professional to understand how one can manipulate people¹s sensory perceptions by changing their appearance.
5. Etiquette and Arts: The professional is routinely called upon to operate in a number of different situations, which may include dealing with individuals from foreign countries, or individuals that are very affluent, and highly cultured. The understanding of foreign cultures, etiquette and arts is required to provide a base that could be used in covert operations.

6. Explosives: The professional must be able to recognise who has the ability and materials necessary to manufacture explosive devices. These devices can be used for many purposes such as distractions, assassinations and destruction. Contrary to public opinion, explosives are a lot easier to make and are more useful than firearms.

7. Fake Identification: The professional should be able to identify fake identification documents (IDs) and understand how these documents are acquired. Legal IDs are very difficult to forge in today¹s world of high technology. However, significant capabilities exist worldwide that create an abundant supply of fake IDs.

8. Forensics: The professional needs a clear understanding of forensic techniques, or the use of science and technology to investigate and establish facts. Forensics techniques are not just used by police agencies but also by intelligence, security and defence personnel.

9. Incendiary Devices: The professional must be knowledgeable about the construction and use of incendiary devices, in other words, devices capable of causing fire. This goes far beyond using matches or a fuel lighter obtained at any location worldwide. These devices are some of the more destructive in the terrorist arsenal of know-how.

10. International and Local Law: The professional must have a general knowledge of issues related to law. This can aid in the manipulation of local and international issues to the advantage of their cause. Additionally, this knowledge will allow the professional to avoid common mistakes that could jeopardize their operations by being caught breaking local laws and attracting the attention of local authorities.

11. Languages: The professional must be able to effectively and efficiently communicate with all people they interact with in the performance of their duties. Professionals must be educated in the languages of the regions they serve. This aids in disguise and better integration with the local culture.

12. Lock and Security Devices: The professional in the field must have a basic understanding of locks and other security devices. The majority of locks available today operate on the same principle, that of the pin tumbler lock. An agent who can bypass doors, lockers, drawers and other lock-based containers removes the ability of a moderate target to keep anything confidential, including the security of their own home. A basic understanding of Electronic Security Systems allows the professional to understand the built-in protection capabilities as well as common techniques used to defeat these systems.

13. Photography: A professional in this field needs to understand the capabilities, techniques and use of digital and film photography. In some cases the professional will choose to use the role of a photographer or journalist as a cover for their covert activities. Very simply a photographer can take photos of the target without arousing suspicion. A journalist can ask a lot of questions and can easily acquire a motive for his so called investigations. Selecting, using and interpreting the output of photographic equipment is another critical skill set needed to succeed in this field.

14. Psychology: The professional must have a basic understanding of psychology. The ability to leverage psychological techniques is one of the most important skills a professional can have. By using such social factors as sex, love and friendship to their advantage, the professional can gain a lot more information than with physical operations. It is extremely important to understand that the vast majority of intelligence operations do not include violence, but the manipulation of information through social factors.

15. Surveillance: The professional must have a complete understanding of the equipment and techniques used to conduct surveillance. This is probably the most important technical knowledge to have, as it involves the acquisition of information. A conversation caught on tape has tremendous value, and can be easily used to bring down politicians, or manipulate public officials and other targets. Modern technology for the use of surveillance is highly sought after and is usually developed by intelligence and secret agencies.

16. Banking: The professional must understand electronic and offshore banking. This knowledge is required to trace funds, discover money laundering operations and other financial transaction activities involved in investigations. A bank account that is accessible from any worldwide location allows the operative to have quick access to funds in case of need. A professional should be knowledgeable in the techniques used to acquire such bank accounts and funds.