Hostile and even "friendly" intelligence organizations are always on the lookout for sources who are vulnerable to coercion, addictions, greed, or emotional manipulation. To eliminate, or at least reduce, the possibility of inadvertently doing something that would bring your activities to the special attention of one of these agencies:
- Do not do anything that might be misconstrued, reflect poorly on your personal judgment, or be embarrassing to you or your company.
- Do not gossip about character flaws, financial problems, emotional relationships, or the marital difficulties of anyone working for the company, including yourself.
- Do not carry, use, or purchase any narcotics, marijuana, or other abused drugs. Some countries have very stringent laws covering the import or use of medications and other substances. If you are using a prescribed medication that contains any narcotic substance or other medication that is subject to abuse, such as amphetamines or tranquilizers, carry a copy of the doctor's prescription for all medications and check local restrictions and requirements prior to departure. Some countries may require additional documentation or certification from your doctor.
- Do not let a friendly ambiance and alcohol override your good sense and capacity when it comes to social drinking.
- Do not engage in black-market activities such as the illegal exchange of currency or the purchase of religious icons or other local antiquities.
- Do not carry any political or religious tracts or brochures or publications likely to be offensive in the host country, such as pornography or radical magazines.
- Do not photograph anything that appears to be associated with the military or internal security of the country, including airports, ports, or restricted areas such as military installations, antennae, or government buildings.
- Do not purchase items that are illegal to import into the United States or other countries such as endangered species or agricultural products.
