Final answer:
The option 'Sudden change to a predictable routine' is not a standard example of an OPSEC countermeasure because, instead of concealing information, it may inadvertently reveal operational changes to adversaries and is not aligned with the goals of making indicators seem unimportant or protecting critical information.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question pertains to identifying which option is not an example of an Operational Security (OPSEC) countermeasure. OPSEC countermeasures are actions or activities aimed at protecting critical information from adversaries by preventing the detection of indicators that could reveal operational intentions or capabilities. The options provided suggest various strategies for keeping critical information out of adversaries' hands:
- Make indicators seem unimportant: This can cause adversaries to disregard certain actions or data points that might otherwise appear valuable.
- Minimize predictable patterns: This makes it more difficult for adversaries to anticipate actions and plan countermeasures or attacks.
- Protecting critical information: This is the essence of OPSEC—ensuring important data is securely stored and transmitted.
- Sudden change to a predictable routine: Although this might seem like a countermeasure because it disrupts predictability, in the context of OPSEC, this action might actually alert adversaries to potential changes in plans or operations, thereby compromising security. This option is least likely to be considered a standard OPSEC countermeasure, as it could draw attention rather than deflect it.
Therefore, the option that is not an example of an OPSEC countermeasure in traditional terms is "Sudden change to a predictable routine." Although in some contexts, changing routines can be a countermeasure, it is not one that makes indicators seem unimportant or conceals critical information—it may actually highlight that an important operational change is occurring.