DNI James Clapper has issued an official statement: http://icontherecord.tumblr.com/post/60712026846/statement-by-director-of-national-intelligence http://icont

DNI James Clapper has issued an official statement: http://icontherecord.tumblr.com/post/60712026846/statement-by-director-of-national-intelligence http://icontherecord.tumblr.com/post/60712026846/statement-b... or http://www.dni.gov/index.php/newsroom/press-releases/191-press-releases-2013/926-statement-by-director-of-national-intelligence-james-r-clapper-on-allegations-of-economic-espionage http://www.dni.gov/index.php/newsroom/press-releases/191-pre... He manages to twist it into a matter of defense against terrorism: > Our collection of information regarding terrorist financing saves lives. Since 9/11, the Intelligence Community has found success in disrupting terror networks by following their money as it moves around the globe. International criminal organizations, proliferators of weapons of mass destruction, illicit arms dealers, or nations that attempt to avoid international sanctions can also be targeted in an effort to aid America’s and our allies’ interests. > As we have said previously, the United States collects foreign intelligence - just as many other governments do - to enhance the security of our citizens and protect our interests and those of our allies around the world. The intelligence Community’s efforts to understand economic systems and policies and monitor anomalous economic activities is critical to providing policy makers with the information they need to make informed decisions that are in the best interest of our national security.