Which of the following best describes the objectives of counterintelligence?

The objectives of counterintelligence primarily focus on understanding and countering the opposition's collection efforts. This involves identifying, detecting, and mitigating any attempts made by adversaries to gather sensitive information about one's own operations, capabilities, and intentions. Counterintelligence activities are essential to protect national security, as they help to prevent espionage and other forms of intelligence-gathering by foreign entities or rival organizations.

By prioritizing the understanding of the methods and intentions of adversaries, counterintelligence allows organizations to implement strategic measures that reduce vulnerabilities and safeguard critical information. This proactive approach not only serves to thwart ongoing collection efforts but also aids in designing more effective operational security protocols. The objective is to create a robust defense against espionage while ensuring that the organization can operate securely and effectively.