we can guess.

i think the dates might be revealing, such as when they started investigating page.

actually, the mere fact that it was classified information that was declassified for political purposes is disconcerting even if the specific information revealed isn't. it undermines the ability to gain confidential information if informants feel the government can't be trusted to keep a secret.


also, apart from revealing classified information, it maligns the reputation of federal investigators and federal investigations.

Link to tweet

He also says it sets a bad precedent.

If it were known when the surveillance of Page began, people he spoke with or met with would know that their conversations were recorded by the FBI.

Even just the public knowledge that Page had been under surveillance reveals techniques and targets.

Taken in it's totality, various intelligence methods and sources can be gleaned from the substance of the text. (I&S are the most closely held secrets because disclosure can put lives and the very security of the nation into grave danger.)

There are specific reasons to add NOFORN to a Top Secret document (no dissemination to any foreign individuals, including those within foreign intelligence services that we work with). By releasing this as they did (and, incredibly, NOT completely obscuring the 'NOFORN' in the original classification heading) it clues people in to look a lot closer at the text, insofar as both what is being said and also what is NOT being said. (Remember - music isn't just the specific notes, it's also heavily dependent on the silent spaces between the notes to create then entire symphony!)