CFA Covert Communication Devices 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which communication method is considered the MOST secure for transmitting highly sensitive intelligence in the field?
- Commercial encrypted email
- In-person verbal communication in a clean environment (Correct answer)
- Encrypted SMS over commercial networks
- End-to-end encrypted VoIP app on a personal smartphone
Correct answer: In-person verbal communication in a clean environment
In-person verbal communication in a thoroughly swept, RF-clean environment eliminates electronic interception vectors that exist with any digital method.
Question 2: A covert radio operator uses the term 'skeds' in the field. What does this refer to?
- Encrypted code books
- Pre-arranged scheduled radio contact windows (Correct answer)
- Signal intelligence summaries
- Shortwave direction-finding equipment
Correct answer: Pre-arranged scheduled radio contact windows
Skeds (schedules) are pre-arranged times at which an agent and their handler agree to establish radio contact, reducing random transmission exposure.
Question 3: What is the operational security (OPSEC) risk of using a personal cell phone for covert communications, even with an encrypted app installed?
- Encrypted apps drain the battery faster
- The phone's metadata, location data, and IMSI can still be tracked by adversaries (Correct answer)
- Commercial phones cannot support end-to-end encryption
- Cell signals always travel slower than radio signals
Correct answer: The phone's metadata, location data, and IMSI can still be tracked by adversaries
Even with application-layer encryption, a commercial smartphone continuously emits IMSI, cell tower location data, and behavioral metadata that hostile intelligence can exploit.
Question 4: In covert communications, what is the function of an 'open code'?
- A cipher that has been publicly released
- Innocent-sounding language that conveys a prearranged covert meaning (Correct answer)
- A radio frequency band open to all users
- An unsecured communication channel used as a decoy
Correct answer: Innocent-sounding language that conveys a prearranged covert meaning
An open code embeds covert meanings within ordinary conversation or text, so the message appears harmless to unaware third parties.
Question 5: Which of the following represents the BEST practice for disposing of a one-time pad sheet after use?
- File it securely for auditing purposes
- Destroy it immediately and completely (Correct answer)
- Return it to the handler at the next meeting
- Encrypt it and store it on the communication device
Correct answer: Destroy it immediately and completely
Immediate and complete destruction of used OTP material ensures that an adversary who recovers it cannot reconstruct past communications.
Question 6: What does the term 'TSCM' stand for in the context of covert communications security?
- Tactical Signal Coordination Module
- Technical Surveillance Countermeasures (Correct answer)
- Timed Secure Channel Management
- Threat Signal Collection Matrix
Correct answer: Technical Surveillance Countermeasures
TSCM (Technical Surveillance Countermeasures) refers to the process of sweeping a location or device for hidden listening and monitoring equipment.
Question 7: An agent in the field receives an unexpected communication that matches their protocol but was not on the schedule. The CORRECT response is to:
- Respond immediately to avoid missing a critical message
- Treat it as a potential compromise and follow abort/verification procedures (Correct answer)
- Confirm identity by asking the contact's real name
- Switch to a backup frequency and respond
Correct answer: Treat it as a potential compromise and follow abort/verification procedures
An off-schedule contact is a red flag that may indicate capture, compromise, or an adversary attempting to exploit the communication channel.
CFA Covert Communication Devices 3
Which communication method is considered the MOST secure for transmitting highly sensitive intelligence in the field?