The UK’s “National Intelligence Model” (NIM) 5x5x5 is a former intelligence evaluation system used by law enforcement and other agencies to assess the credibility and reliability of information. It was replaced in 2016 by a simpler 3x5x2 model, but knowledge of the 5x5x5 system is still relevant for understanding older intelligence products.
The name 5x5x5 refers to the three components used to grade intelligence, each with five possible rankings:
- Evaluation of Source (A to E): Assesses the reliability and trustworthiness of the source that provided the information.
- Evaluation of Information (1 to 5): Assesses the credibility and veracity of the information itself.
- Handling Sensitivity (1 to 5): Determines who can access the intelligence based on its sensitivity.
The 5x5x5 evaluation scale
- Source evaluation (A–E)
The first “5” ranks the reliability of the intelligence source, from A (Always Reliable) to E (Untested Source). - Information evaluation (1–5)
The second “5” ranks the credibility of the information itself, independent of its source, from 1 (Known to be True Without Reservation) to 5 (Suspected to be False or Malicious). - Handling sensitivity (1–5)
The third “5” sets guidelines on how the intelligence should be handled and disseminated based on its sensitivity, from 1 (lowest sensitivity, widely shareable) to 5 (highest sensitivity, classified as top secret).
How the system was used
The 5x5x5 model was a key part of the wider National Intelligence Model, which aimed to improve intelligence-led policing. Its purpose was to provide a standardized way for police forces and agencies to evaluate intelligence, leading to more consistent and effective decision-making. The resulting evaluation would help determine how resources were allocated to address various issues