Security Executive Blog

Remember the old saying? “Rank has its privilege”? It’s not always prudent to assume certain privileges just because you have means and intent. It’s not safe to assume just because you have access to government Information Technology (IT) systems as a manager or system administrator, for example, that you have the authority to do so anytime and for any reason. Use of government IT systems takes into consideration how an applicant has used technology on the job. Viewing pornography, working non-mission related tasks, hiding evidence, and harassing fellow employees while using employer computers are some indicators that an applicant could bring risk to sensitive information residing on information technology. Guideline M: Use Of Information Technology is a very important criteria since cleared employees must demonstrate the ability to follow rules and regulations . This is especially critical as more and more sensitive information resides on computers. Gaining unauthorized access, d...

Outside activities are those jobs or relationships occurring outside of the United States and involving relationships with foreign countries, persons and businesses. With the internet, social media, and connectivity, there are great opportunities to meet other like-minded business people. The world seems to be getting smaller, while opportunities are increasing. Forming businesses with foreign people and companies can create new jobs, products, and services. These opportunities can also elevate partners to senior management levels and with high value stocks. However, they could come with a cost to those who might seek a government security clearance. Let’s look at a few examples: It’s Complicated An applicant is the president and CEO of a company incorporated in Singapore. Key management employees and decision makers are foreign citizens and almost half of his income is from the company. He spends time oversees, with foreign citizens, and other foreign companies related to his b...