Should you lie on security clearance?

While not often charged, lying on security clearance forms can be considered a criminal offense. In many of these cases, just speaking with a lawyer knowledgeable in security clearances can help the person decide whether to disclose an issue or discontinue the clearance process if there is potential criminal liability.

Do people lie on security clearances?

Many enlistees going into the military provide false or erroneous information on security clearance applications in order to get past the screeners. Often times they are told by a recruiter or someone else to not disclose information such as illegal drug use which might be disqualifying.

What happens if I lie on SF-86?

If you lie on the SF-86, you could face fines and/or up-to five years in prison. Even if you omit information, that information could be discovered and would be perceived the same as lying.

Should I tell people I have a clearance?

The short answer is: Only if it's relevant. Here are some situations when it can be helpful to list security clearance on your resume: You're applying to a job that needs the same type of security clearance you already have — for example, if you're transferring from one military or government position to another.

What happens if you lie on a security clearance form?

We frequently warn of the importance of security clearance applicants being honest on government forms, including the SF-86 security clearance application. Falsifying information on the SF-86 is a felony that can result in fines or five years in prison.

Can You Lose Your Security Clearance for Lying on SF86?

What gets investigated for secret clearance?

Credit and criminal history checks will be conducted on all applicants. For a Top Secret security clearance, the background investigation includes additional record checks which can verify citizenship for the applicant and family members, verification of birth, education, employment history, and military history.

What can ruin a security clearance?

Is a security clearance a big deal?

The highest levels of clearance can lead to even higher salaries. The Human Resource Association of the National Capital Area also reported that employees with top secret security clearance could earn up to 60% more than those without top secret clearance in certain jobs.

Does security clearance check your phone?

For what it's worth, security clearance background investigators also don't bug phones or conduct surveillance on applicants, so you can rest a little easier knowing your every move isn't necessarily being watched.

How many US citizens have top secret clearance?

The 1.3 million individuals with Top Secret clearances are supporting a wide variety of missions, from the CIA to the Department of Commerce. Just because you have a Top Secret clearance doesn't mean you have access to any information out there that's classified Top Secret.

Does your employer see your SF-86?

You should rest assured that the information you provide on your SF-86 is meant to remain private.

Do investigators look at old SF-86?

In fact, the instructions to answer the SF 86 specifically note that the government can look at all previous SF 86's in the past that have been completed by applicants. I have seen cases that go back 30 years, covering three secret SF 86's is over 10 year periods each.

Can SF-86 be used against you?

So, submitting your SF-86 with an admission of drug use while employed with your current employer is also telling that employer that you violated their policies. This can result in administrative disciplinary action against the employee, up to and including termination.

What percentage of people pass security clearance?

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) denied 8.5% of applicants and revoked clearances from 0.5% of holders. The Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) had 0% denials and 0.5% revocations. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) had 0.1% denials and 2.0% revocations.

What percentage of people get denied security clearance?

myth #1: Many security clearances are denied.

Peregrine noted the rate of security clearance denials is incredibly low. Less than 1% of security clearances investigations result in denial. Individuals may not be eligible for an interim clearance, and they may have significant issues that need to be mitigated.

What can jeopardize a security clearance?

Criminal sexual behavior, pornography and repeated, high-risk sexual behavior are all examples that suggest lack of self-control and trustworthiness to retain security clearance.

Do security clearance check text messages?

While it is true that security clearance investigators can dig deeply into all the financial, personal, and social aspects of your life, your text messages, and private online accounts are safe, for now.

How far back do security clearances go?

The SF-86 form requests information back 7 years for employment and residence; however, to comply with the investigative standards, 10 years is required.

Do clearance investigators look at social media?

In the years since, many security clearance applicants have been left wondering what – if anything – the government is considering in an online search of security clearance applicants. SEAD 5 created a framework for federal agencies to use as they implemented their own social media monitoring programs.

Does everyone get interviewed for a security clearance?

The answer – no, not standard protocol. But it's also not out of the ordinary. A number of things can trigger an interview as a part of a Secret clearance investigation.

Do you always get interviewed for security clearance?

Not every security cleared position will require a face-to-face interview. Some lower-level clearances, such as Security Check (SC) or Counter Terrorism Check (CTC) roles, will often only require a written questionnaire and a background check. For higher level clearances, an interview is a must.

Can I refuse security clearance?

Security Clearance is not compulsory and is the choice of the individual to undergo the vetting process. If you choose to not go through the process it may affect the chances of gaining employment for a particular department or employer.

Does anxiety affect security clearance?

Security clearances are not denied for seeking help. Pro-actively seeking counseling is a positive indicator and often mitigates security concerns. Less than 1% of security clearances are denied or revoked due to psychological concerns.

How often are secret clearances investigated?

An individual is normally subject to reinvestigation approximately every five years for a Secret or Top Secret clearance. For what reasons would I be denied a security clearance?

Do they interview friends for secret clearance?

An investigator may show up to your current employers office. Not sure about your neighbors. I was interviewed by an investigator because I was listed as an associate or friend of a Soldier obtaining a Top Secret Clearance. So friends may be interviewed.