Among other incidents, the reports list “overly broad or poorly constructed data queries that potentially targeted” U.S. persons, improper handling of data, and information about Americans being improperly disseminated in reports. “U.S. persons” is a category that includes citizens, permanent residents, companies incorporated in the U.S. and unincorporated organizations to which a “substantial number” of Americans belong.
Some incidents involved deliberate misuse of government surveillance. In 2009, a U.S. Army sergeant used an NSA system “to target his wife,” also a soldier, leading to punishment including reduction in rank to specialist, one report stated.
In another instance, an analyst in late 2011 “reported that, during the past two or three years, she had searched her spouse’s personal telephone directory without his knowledge to obtain names and telephone numbers for targeting,” according to a report.
“Although the investigation is ongoing, the analyst has been advised to cease her activities,” that report stated.
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