In category: Security Clearance
Polygraph vs. Voice Stress Analysis: Different Tools and Federal Use
A polygraph test and voice stress analysis use different signals: a conventional polygraph records cardiovascular, respiratory, and electrodermal activity, while voice stress systems analyze speech. Comparing a polygraph test vs. voice stress analysis also requires separating sci… more
How Long a Polygraph Exam Takes, From Pretest to Quality Review
How long does a polygraph test take? CBP describes its applicant examination as a 4–6-hour interview, with results subject to quality-control review. That estimate covers an appointment, not just sensor recording. Check-in, preparation, question review, testing, and discussion … more
Security Concerns vs. Suitability Concerns: How Personal Conduct Is Routed
The adjudicative criteria in 5 CFR 731.202 govern suitability and covered fitness determinations; they are not the national security clearance guidelines. An employment incident can raise concerns under both that regulation and SEAD 4, but the decision being made, the agency's au… more
Security Clearance Drug Use Questions: A Record-Building Checklist
Security clearance drug use questions cover more than consumption. Section 23 of the SF-86 separates illegal use, other drug activity, prescription misuse, and counseling or treatment, with different reporting periods. Build a substance-by-substance history before entering answer… more
DCSA vs. FBI: Who Investigates Which Federal Workforce
DCSA is the primary federal background investigation provider; the FBI investigates its own applicants and selected applicants for other government entities. The useful DCSA vs. FBI distinction is who runs the investigation, not whose database appears in it. An FBI fingerprint ch… more