Page:Durham Report.pdf/32

 1.&emsp;Use of least intrusive means

The President has directed that the Intelligence Community “shall use the least intrusive collection techniques feasible within the United States or directed against United States persons abroad.” The Intelligence Community includes the intelligence elements of the FBI. The AGG-Dom implements this provision and observes that: "The conduct of investigations and other activities … may present choices between the use of different investigative methods that are each operationally sound and effective, but that are more or less intrusive, considering such factors as the effect on the privacy and civil liberties of individuals and potential damage to reputation."

There is additional discussion of requirements for a “sensitive investigative matter” or “SIM,” principally in the DIOG. One category of SIM is a matter involving a political candidate or a “domestic political organization or individual prominent in such an organization.” The definition of a SIM also includes “any other matter which, in the judgment of the official authorizing an investigation, should be brought to the attention of FBI Headquarters and other Department of Justice officials.” It goes on to explain:
 * In a SIM, “particular care should be taken when considering whether the planned course of action is the least intrusive method if reasonable based on the circumstances of the investigation.”