About CIA
Our mission is straightforward but critical: leverage the power of information to keep our Nation safe.
![Black and white CIA seal.](/static/7ffceee5c0aefadee0a9c104f6f450c2/6ea44/ABO-LAN-Hero-1-1.png)
The CIA seal features several symbols: an eagle for alertness, a shield for defense, and a compass rose for global intelligence collection.
We are the Nation’s first line of defense. We accomplish what others cannot accomplish and go where others cannot go.
![The About glyph](/static/cef0bf6bbf4826dc5e9aaddbbff9d990/4a72a/Glyphs_Mission_Positive.png)