PST says that foreign states’ intelligence activity in Norway and against Norwegian interests will remain at a high level in 2010. Especially the advanced technological environments in the Norwegian petroleum and energy sphere will be vulnerable targets, says the Security Police.
Spies with energy focus
Without being specific, the annual threat report states that intelligence services show a great interest in energy-related issues and advanced technology. The report says: “Currently the greatest intelligence activity registered by PST has been within the management of the oil and gas resources in the High North.”
Svalbard
PST anticipates that aspects related to the High North as an area of priority for Norwegian foreign policy will be particularly vulnerable. For example, intelligence activity will be directed at unresolved legal issues in the area such as the Norwegian enforcement of the protected zone and interpretations of the Svalbard Treaty.
Interests for Norwegian Techology
Regarding oil- and gas technology to be used in the north, the police expect spies to focus on obtaining the Norwegian technology enable them to gain a competitive edge.
Foreign states’ intelligence activity will continue to be geared towards political decision makers, employees in bureaucracy, players in the business sector, journalists and individuals working in research and development, according to PST.
Spies under Diplomatic cover
Intelligence officers who operate under diplomatic cover will conceal their intelligence affiliation from their contacts for as long as possible. They attempt to establish social relationships in order to gain confidence, and through such contacts they try to influence or undermine Norwegian decision-making processes to the benefit of a foreign state.
Infiltration
PST anticipated that infiltration will continue to be an intelligence method employed against targets in Norway. If infiltrators succeed in being appointed to key posts within the public and private sectors, this can cause considerable harm. In addition, employees can be pressurized by an intelligence service to provide information.
No specific foreign intelligence services or countries are named in the annual threat report from PST.
Read the report: Annual Threat Assessment 2010
