Which term refers to intelligence derived from sources available to the public?

The term that refers to intelligence derived from sources available to the public is open-source intelligence. This type of intelligence is collected from publicly accessible information, such as news articles, social media, academic publications, and government reports. Open-source intelligence is essential because it allows analysts to gather relevant data without the need for covert operations or classified information.

Using publicly available resources can enhance the understanding of various situations or threats, and it often serves as a foundation for further analysis. This intelligence is particularly valuable because it can provide context, support assessments, and aid in decision-making processes in many fields, including law enforcement, military operations, and corporate security.

In contrast, classified intelligence pertains to information that is restricted to certain individuals due to its sensitive nature. Operational intelligence focuses on real-time insights that can influence immediate actions and decisions, while raw intelligence refers to unprocessed information that requires analysis and validation. The distinction among these terms is crucial for understanding the various sources and types of intelligence that exist within the broader field.