80 EYE SPY INTELLIGENCE MAGAZINE 115 2018
T
INTERROGATION AND HUMINT
Deceptive
Factor
The
PART 12
IN THE INTELLIGENCE CYCLE
MIKE FINN examines a rarely discussed, yet vital intelligence
element used to draw accurate information from a person
during the interrogation or interview process
TRADECRAFT
o understand the advancements in
the intelligence world’s research
into mind manipulation technology,
we will first show the malleability of
the mind by opening the door of
memory implants to you the reader.
Memories are stored in the brain like the
frames of a cine film, at speed they appear as
one continuous chain of events, it’s easy to
slip a few frames into this set-up. In fact you
do not remember the original moment of an
event, just the last memory of that moment;
time can also erode the stability of a memory.
In respect of the external factors to memory
implant, there are two main elements, the first
is the subject’s perspective and the second is
the initiator’s (interviewer’s) approach. In the
first instance tiredness, confusion, and
misconceptual uncertainty can make the
memory implant easier. In the latter element,
blurring truth and illusion, being a believable
and trustworthy source, and reinforcement are
all components factors.
Without any external influence, witnesses to
an accident, for example, inadvertently create
conflicting versions of events. Misinformation
or false news is often reinforced into an
illusion of truth; it’s why contrived memory
implants are quite feasible. Let’s take an
experimental example; four people who
enjoyed a fishing trip several years ago,
eventually got together and after a few drinks,
they begin to reminisce. The most trusted
friend related a false memory, which was
about distracting an aggressive bull as they all
crossed a field. If this merges with a real
memory of crossing a field, the ‘hero factor’
will reinforce the event. Fur ther reinforcement
can be obtained as the other members recall
the event, by praising their friend for his
actions. Over time casual reinforcement
Environment, understanding a
target’s mindset and numerous
external factors, can assist those
engaged with intelligence collection
at the interview stage
MIKE FINN