Giving Your Security Clearance Information Over the Phone
Cleared job seekers who search for a new role must provide their security clearance information when they seek new opportunities. Providing this over the phone can raise concerns given we live in an era where identity theft is a common crime. However, it’s a process you must face if you want to move to the next step. To protect your security clearance information, we offer a few key pieces of advice that can protect you from intrusive crime.
Verify the Recruiting Agency
Verify the recruiting agency to keep your security clearance information safe. If you get an email from a recruiter who asks to speak about a potential cleared opportunity, do your homework before you respond. Check the recruiting firm’s public information online and confirm their address phone number. This is a critical part of keeping you safe.
If the recruiter calls you over the phone, ask for the recruiter’s name and contact information. Tell them you want to verify who they are and their organization before you give them your information. The recruiter should be understanding and provide you with their credentials.
Ask to Speak with the Facilities Security Officer
Ask to speak with the Facilities Security Officer (FSO) to provide your security clearance information over the phone.
Recruiters are not authorized to check your security clearance status, so don’t give it to them.
Also, don’t be afraid to ask the recruiter questions about how they safeguard your clearance information. Many recruiting offices possess secure ways to protect your security clearance information. They should be able to discuss their process with you.
Offer to Come to the Recruiting Office
Offer to come to the recruiting office. It can be time consuming on your part and the recruiting office’s, but it is an additional layer of prevention you can take to safeguard security clearance information. If the recruiting office is really interested in you as a candidate, they will provide you with the opportunity to visit. This also gives you the bonus of meeting the staff face-to-face to build a connection.
Never Provide Your Security Clearance Information in an Email
Never provide your security clearance information in an email.
Email is a major source in identity theft and cyber criminals are eagerly waiting for you to provide them with your details. Don’t do it, and don’t respond to recruiters who ask for it via email.