Which factors are considered by national security adjudicators when assessing eligibility for a clearance?

National security adjudicators assess multiple factors when determining an individual's eligibility for a security clearance. The selection of personal conduct, criminal conduct, and allegiance to the United States encompasses key areas of concern regarding an individual's reliability, trustworthiness, and loyalty to the nation.

Personal conduct reflects an individual's behavior and how it aligns with the standards expected of those entrusted with sensitive information. This can include any actions that may raise doubts about an individual's integrity or reliability.

Criminal conduct, on the other hand, involves any past crimes or offenses that may indicate a propensity for untrustworthy behavior or potential security risks. A history of criminal activity can significantly impact one's suitability for access to classified information.

Lastly, allegiance to the United States is a fundamental consideration as it gauges an individual's commitment to the nation's interests over conflicting loyalties. This is particularly important in national security roles where loyalty can have profound implications for the safety of the country and its operations.

Together, these factors provide a comprehensive picture of an individual’s character and potential risks, helping adjudicators make informed decisions about granting security clearances.