Training

This course introduces the problem of intellectual property (IP) theft and provides tools, techniques, and resources for investigating and prosecuting these crimes. A combination of lecture, discussion, and interactive exercises illustrates the potential dangers and economic repercussions of counterfeit products, as well as best practices and techniques for investigating IP theft. Students are provided with a state-specific workbook that includes relevant statutes, sample organizational documents for IP investigations, and additional resources for investigators and prosecutors.

This course introduces analysts to the broader concepts of connecting the dots through link analysis. A critical portion of conducting a successful analytical investigation is the ability to link together and understand the complexities of the connectedness between people and organizations. Introduction to Link Analysis expands on the basic principles of link and association analyses explored in the Foundations of Intelligence Analysis Training while building a framework for more advanced methods such as social network analysis.

This course addresses the critical need for well-trained intelligence analysts to interpret growing amounts of information. Topics include the intelligence cycle, analytical thinking skills, the importance of strategic analysis, communication and social media analysis, recommendation development, and legal and ethical issues. Students work hands-on with specialized software to synthesize information and develop various products of intelligence. The course was developed by a consortium that included the National White Collar Crime Center, Law Enforcement Intelligence Unit, the International Association of Law Enforcement Intelligence Analysis, and the Regional Information Sharing System.

This course covers basic intelligence writing and briefing principles, as well as methods for effective and clear intelligence sharing. Topics include creative/critical thinking and critical reading skills, source evaluation, privacy and civil rights, intelligence writing style and structure, and creating and presenting intelligence briefings. With guidance from experienced experts, students gain hands-on experience by working through datasets based on real cases to produce intelligence products. An instructor and peer feedback process is applied to the reports and briefings produced in class.