Innovation at the CIA: From Sputnik to Silicon Valley and Venona to Vault 7

Abstract

This chapter concentrates on technological innovation lead by the CIA, particularly those of the digital era. Key here is the relationship between the CIA and industry. It examines how the CIA started a venture capital firm in Silicon Valley, In-Q-Tel, to learn from the centre of technological development. The chapter then discusses internal changes as a result of technological change: the renaming of the Information Operations Center to the Center for Cyber Intelligence and the creation of the Directorate for Digital Innovation. The chapter then considers the work of this new Directorate, and the challenges CIA has faced in adapting to the age of the internet, including, notably, the challenge of preserving security and preventing leaks. Document: CIA Statement on Claims by Wikileaks.