Why is social media review included in security clearance assessments?

Social media review is included in security clearance assessments primarily to observe individual behavior and associations. This process allows evaluators to gain insights into a person's public persona, interactions, and the relationships they foster. By examining social media activity, investigators can identify patterns of behavior that may raise concerns about an individual's reliability or trustworthiness, such as the expression of extremist views, illegal activities, or associations with individuals or groups that pose a security risk. The information obtained from social media can provide a broader context about a person's character beyond what is typically gathered through traditional background checks or interviews, thereby enhancing the overall evaluation of their suitability for a security clearance.

The focus on behavior and associations underscores the importance of understanding how an individual's social interactions and online behavior might influence their judgment and decision-making in sensitive positions.