What is the primary function of security clearance investigations?

The primary function of security clearance investigations is to assess an individual’s eligibility for access to classified information. This process involves a thorough evaluation of a person's background, which includes their personal history, criminal record, creditworthiness, and other factors that may indicate their reliability, trustworthiness, and loyalty to the United States. The goal is to prevent security breaches and protect sensitive information from being accessed by individuals who may pose a risk due to past behaviors or circumstances that might affect their judgment.

Assessing eligibility is critical because those with classified access are entrusted with information that, if disclosed, could harm national security. Therefore, the investigation aims to ensure that individuals can maintain the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data, making it a vital component of the overall security framework within the Department of Defense and other government entities.