How is character assessed during the personnel security review?

Character assessment during the personnel security review is primarily carried out through an evaluation of an individual's conduct and background history. This comprehensive approach includes reviewing records related to behavior, legal history, and any actions that reflect on a person's character and integrity. Analyzing past behavior provides insight into how an individual may handle sensitive information and responsibilities in the future.

While financial status can provide context regarding one's judgment or potential risk of coercion, it is not the sole factor in assessing character. Reference checks with past employers contribute to understanding a candidate's professional behavior but do not encompass the full scope of character assessment, which also considers personal conduct and decisions throughout a person's life. Personal interviews serve as an important tool in the assessment process but are only part of the overall evaluation, not the sole method for determining character. Therefore, the most comprehensive and effective method of assessing character is through a detailed review of conduct and background history.