Security Executive Blog

The latest industry buzz is the “release of the new National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM)”. I’m putting air quotes in there, because an actual NISPOM has not been rewritten or re-released. There is no re-release of NISPOM, only a reorganization of the CFRs that duplicate National Industrial Security Program requirements. If you are expecting the release of a “new NISPOM”, such as a Change 3 or a total re-write, that has not occurred. I encourage you to read further. The genesis of all this buzz of a “new NISPOM” is listed here:  https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2020-12-21/pdf/2020-27698.pdf Straight to the point Conclusion:  No new NISPOM (just a few additions)  32 CFR part 117 and 32 CFR part 2004 are redundant requirements DoD will no longer publish the DoD Manual 5220.22, NISPOM as a DoD policy issuance in 32 CFR part 117.  32 CFR part 2004, “National Industrial Security Program” is now the standing CFR NISPOM Change 2 is still a req...

 Here's an interesting scenario. Imagine you are walking the floor and talking to employees when you approach a security container and employees who controlled its access. As part of your inspection, you wanted to verify all documents were properly marked and stored appropriately. After asking for the custodian to open the container, he pulled out his cell phone and began scrolling. you asked what he had been looking for and he stated: "I can't remember the combination, but I'm sure that it's in here somewhere." Whoa! Hold the presses. You immediately changed the combination, filed the necessary report, and investigated whether or not classified information was compromised (not necessarily in that order). You also provided a clear policy and training agenda and that problem disappeared. The story may be true or a similar situation may be familiar.    But here's the question: Do your employees really understand how to protect classified information? Some no...

   Have you taken the next step to being competitive in the government contracts arena? If not, this article will provide information and tips based on a proven method of studying for and passing the exam.  Why earn a certification? There are several reasons to achieve certification. One of which allows cleared defense contractor owners and employees to take advantage of opportunities offered in the recent Presidential Executive Order: National Security Professional Development. The Executive order states: "In order to enhance the national security of the United States...it is the policy of the United States to promote the education, training, and experience of current and future professionals in national security positions (security professionals)..." The National Strategy identified in the Executive Order provides a plan to give security professionals access to education, training to increase their professional experience in efforts to increase their skill level and abi...

By: Jeffrey W. Bennett, SAPPC, SFPC, ISOC, ISP   In our various roles as industrial security managers, we often field tough security questions. Good questions provide the opportunity to address security clearance and awareness issues that may not arise during formal annual training sessions. These questions usually come up as I walk around the facilities or speak with folks informally. Here are just a few: 1. Is everyone who asks guaranteed a security clearance?    No, having a security clearance is not one of our inalienable rights. A security clearance is a determination of trustworthiness based upon an extensive background check conducted by some very professional and persistent investigators. The background checks help answer a person's ability to protect classified information based on the following criteria: • Allegiance to the United States • Foreign influence • Foreign preference • Sexual behavior   • Personal conduct • Financia...