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Inconclusive Polygraph Results: Why They Are Not the Same as Failure
An inconclusive polygraph means the examination did not support a definite classification under the scoring approach used. It does not mean deception was established, and it does not establish a favorable result either. For a job applicant, the immediate task is to learn whether … more
Lying About Drug Use: Why Candor Becomes a Separate Clearance Issue
Lying about drug use on a security clearance questionnaire can raise a separate concern about honesty even when the underlying drug history might be considered for mitigation. Drug involvement falls under Guideline H; deliberate omission or falsification can also raise Guideline … more
Foreign Contacts Made Through Social Media: When Online Becomes Reportable
For SF-86 foreign contacts, social media is a method of contact, not an exemption from disclosure. The questionnaire expressly includes electronic communication. Whether an online relationship belongs on the form depends on the foreign-contact question's scope and relationship cr… more
What Clearance Investigators May Ask Your Friends and Neighbors
Security clearance reference questions can cover how someone knows you, what they have observed about your reliability and honesty, and whether your personal history is accurate. A friend, neighbor, or former coworker may know different parts of that history. Expect the questions… more
Tier 3 Investigation: The Standard Path to Secret Eligibility
A Tier 3 investigation is a background investigation used for noncritical-sensitive national-security positions, commonly supporting a Secret eligibility decision. It is not itself a clearance or permission to read classified information. The investigation gathers information; th… more