How is counterintelligence defined in the National Security Act of 1947?

Counterintelligence, as defined in the National Security Act of 1947, encompasses the activities necessary to protect against foreign intelligence threats. This includes actions aimed at detecting, thwarting, and neutralizing espionage activities conducted by foreign entities. The focus is on safeguarding national security interests by ensuring that sensitive information and operations are shielded from adversaries who might seek to exploit them for their own gain.

The definition reflects a proactive approach to national security, emphasizing the importance of defending against intelligence activities that could compromise the safety and integrity of the nation. The emphasis on protection signifies the purpose of counterintelligence in thwarting potential security risks posed by foreign intelligence operations.

In contrast, the other options present concepts that do not align with the core definition of counterintelligence as outlined in the National Security Act. For instance, gathering information to promote espionage is counterproductive to the goals of counterintelligence, while operations conducted specifically for espionage fall under intelligence activities rather than counterintelligence. Monitoring domestic threats, while significant in other contexts, does not encompass the broader scope of counterintelligence intended to safeguard against foreign threats, which is the essential focus of the act.