What does a security clearance re-investigation involve?

A security clearance re-investigation is fundamentally about ensuring that individuals with existing security clearances continue to meet the necessary criteria for access to classified information. This periodic review is designed to evaluate any changes in a person's circumstances, such as financial status, legal issues, or other factors that might affect their eligibility. By conducting re-investigations at set intervals, the security clearance process helps mitigate risks and maintain the integrity of the security framework.

This systematic approach is essential because individuals' situations can evolve over time, which could potentially impact their trustworthiness and reliability. As such, re-investigations are an important part of safeguarding national security interests, allowing for the ongoing assessment of cleared personnel.

The other options do not accurately reflect the nature of a re-investigation. A new application signifies an initial request for clearance rather than a routine evaluation. An immediate suspension of security privileges does not pertain to the re-investigation process itself, as it is typically reserved for situations where there is an immediate concern regarding an individual’s trustworthiness. Conducting a background check only for new hires doesn't encompass the ongoing review process that re-investigations entail for current clearance holders.