What should personnel do if they notice an unusual pattern of behavior from a colleague?

When personnel notice an unusual pattern of behavior from a colleague, the appropriate course of action is to report it to the Counterintelligence (CI) or Security Office. This option is correct because it addresses the need for a systematic and official response to potentially concerning behavior that could indicate a security threat or violation of protocols. Reporting such observations ensures that trained professionals can evaluate the situation with the proper resources and authority, which is crucial in maintaining a safe and secure environment.

By escalating the matter to the CI or Security Office, personnel contribute to a structured approach to identifying and mitigating risks that may not be apparent at first glance. It also allows experts to handle the situation with the necessary confidentiality and discretion, avoiding potential misunderstandings that could occur with direct inquiries about a colleague’s behavior. This method aligns with best practices in security and counterintelligence, promoting a healthily cautious culture while ensuring that the incident is addressed appropriately.

Monitoring a colleague discretely might lead to assumptions or unwarranted conclusions without the proper context, and asking the colleague directly could be counterproductive, possibly leading to defensive reactions or escalating the situation. Ignoring the behavior, even if it seems unrelated to work, undermines the importance of vigilance in security matters and can have serious consequences should