Evidence is mounting that NSA leaker Edward Snowden's decision to expose the agency's operational capabilities has led al-Qaida to enhance its encryption technology, setting back counterterrorism efforts by years and needlessly placing American lives at risk.

Officials warned as early as May 2013 that the leaks would provide aid and comfort to America's enemies, and now that scenario is beginning to play out.

Click HERE to read an exclusive analysis by LIGNET's top intelligence experts.