How to Read an FBI File |
FBI files in the MFF Archive feature abundant abbreviations, code numbers, redactions, and other features which can seem like gibberish. This new guide to reading FBI files, written by Phil Lapsley while researching his book on the history of phone phreaking, is an invaluable guide.
Beyond clear explanations of the FBI's filing mechanisms, this article contains links to other handy online resources:
- List of FBI offense codes. Ever wondered what the 105 which starts Oswald's 105-82555 file stands for (answer: Foreign CounterIntelligence)?
- List of FBI office abbreviations. For instance, WFO stands for Washington Field Office.
- List of FBI Abbreviations. Decode such abbreviations as ASAC, ELSUR, FNU, ITAR, and many more.