Operations Security

For U.S. Africa Command, operations security, aka “OPSEC,” is a means to identify, control and protect unclassified information, assess its vulnerabilities and threats, and mitigate the risk for exploitation of U.S. Africa Command’s personnel, programs, families and activities. If sensitive information is not properly protected, adversaries or competitors can cause harm to the interests of U.S. Africa Command community.

Information to protect:

· social security numbers

· birthdays

· bank account information

· names and addresses of family members

· details of our loved ones’ employment

· information publicized on Facebook/Twitter profiles and posts

· current and future exercises/operations

· key personnel schedules and travel itineraries

· personnel, acquisition and logistics information

· emergency or contingency plans

· changes to/or details of normal operating procedures

· sensitive information

· It is imperative all of us do everything we can to protect ourselves, our families, and our military community.

Simple internal measures to avoid release of information from the above list when using social media, sharing files online, thinking through what is discussed in public areas are all critical in ensuring adversaries are unable to exploit information. Multiple information aggregated together can increase the level of classification and determination of liability for members of the command to be liable for an unauthorized disclosure.

If you are a working or family member of U.S. Africa Command, and you need assistance with OPSEC planning or assessment, feel free to contact the OPSEC program management office by phone: 

Commercial: +49 (0) 711.7081.3913 / 3912 / 3911 / 3966.