What should be included in a security clearance background check?

The inclusion of personal history, criminal history, foreign contacts, and financial status in a security clearance background check is critical for assessing an individual's eligibility for access to classified information. This comprehensive approach ensures that potential vulnerabilities are identified, which could pose a risk to national security.

Personal history provides insight into an individual’s character and lifestyle choices that may influence their reliability and trustworthiness. A criminal history check is essential to evaluate any past behaviors that could indicate a propensity for dishonesty or other concerning actions. Assessing foreign contacts is important due to the risk of foreign influence or espionage, especially if the contacts could affect loyalty to the United States. Lastly, reviewing an individual's financial status is crucial; financial difficulties may lead to vulnerability to coercion or compromise.

Together, these elements form a holistic view of an individual, enabling appropriate determinations to be made regarding their suitability for a security clearance. The other options, while they might touch on relevant areas, do not encompass the full scope necessary for such a critical assessment.