Covert Tradecraft

What you can learn playing this SPY GAME:

Covert tradecraft refers to the skills, techniques, and methods used in espionage, intelligence gathering, and covert operations to maintain secrecy, avoid detection, and achieve objectives clandestinely. It encompasses a wide range of disciplines and practices employed by intelligence operatives, spies, and agents operating in hostile or sensitive environments. Covert tradecraft includes:

  • Surveillance: Techniques for observing and monitoring targets discreetly, such as tailing, surveillance detection, and the use of hidden cameras or listening devices.
  • Evasion and Escape: Methods for evading pursuit, surveillance, or capture, including disguise, blending into surroundings, and escape tactics.
  • Communication: Secure methods for exchanging information and maintaining contact with handlers or fellow operatives, often using codes, dead drops, encrypted communication, and covert signals.
  • Cover Identities: Creating and maintaining plausible cover stories, false identities, and personas to conceal one’s true intentions and affiliations.
  • Tradecraft Tools: Use of specialized equipment and gadgets, such as concealed cameras, lock-picking tools, disguises, and forged documents.
  • Covert Entry: Techniques for gaining unauthorized access to restricted areas or facilities without detection, such as lock picking, bypassing security systems, and infiltration.
  • Counterintelligence: Measures taken to protect against enemy espionage and surveillance, including deception, counter-surveillance, and operational security (OPSEC).
  • Psychological Operations: Strategies for influencing perceptions, behavior, and decision-making through propaganda, disinformation, and psychological manipulation.
  • Asset Recruitment and Handling: Methods for identifying, recruiting, and managing human sources (assets) to gather intelligence or carry out covert activities.
  • Operational Planning: Strategic and tactical planning for conducting covert operations, including target selection, reconnaissance, mission preparation, and contingency planning.

Covert tradecraft is a fundamental aspect of espionage and intelligence work, and proficiency in these skills is essential for operatives operating in clandestine or hostile environments.

All of these may be integrated into the missions you will create as the Cell Handler.