Common pitfalls to avoid when filling out SF 86 for your PCL If you’re looking to obtain a Secret or Top Secret Personnel Clearance (PCL), you will need to fill out a Standard Form (SF) 86. This form provides the Vetting Risk Office (VRO) with information they will then verify before you can receive your PCL. It can also be used in a periodic reinvestigation of those who already hold a PCL and … [Read more...] about How to Fill Out the SF 86 for a Personnel Clearance
FAQs About the New NISPOM Rule
Answers to frequently asked questions about 32 CFR Part 117 The National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM) went through a major change in February of 2021. The document, which was formally a DoD manual, is now a federal rule known as 32 CFR Part 117. This also came with new definitions for a major role and changes in some requirements. How does a federal rule differ from a DoD … [Read more...] about FAQs About the New NISPOM Rule
Protecting your PII While Working and Networking
Know what personal information is OK to give away and what to protect When it comes to your Personal Identifiable Information (PII) like your birthdate, address, or driver’s license number, managing what you give out and when is crucial. For those holding a Personnel Clearance (PCL), protecting this information can be even more vital, especially when it comes to sharing information related to … [Read more...] about Protecting your PII While Working and Networking
How Often Should You Replace Your Physical Security Devices?
A guide to replacement timelines for your physical security systems For secure facilities like SCIFs, SAPFs, and Open Storage Areas, there are several devices that are crucial in maintaining their security, though all kinds of business employ these as well. Facilities rely on these pieces of equipment working correctly, and they’re an important part of a facility’s Security in Depth (SID), but … [Read more...] about How Often Should You Replace Your Physical Security Devices?
An Expert’s Analysis of the 2021 NISPOM Changes
A look at what problems the new NISPOM tries to solve and what problems it creates Since February 2006, government contractors who managed classified contracts relied heavily upon the foundational document for security: the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual, aka NISPOM. The NISPOM, a DoD manual, was the document that guided the establishment and quality control for the … [Read more...] about An Expert’s Analysis of the 2021 NISPOM Changes
What is a SMO in the New NISPOM Rule?
What you need to know about the Senior Management Official (SMO) role In the new NISPOM Rule, 32 CFR part 117, the role of Senior Management Official (SMO) is given defined responsibilities and increased accountability for the safeguarding of national security information. Your company’s SMO is a high-ranking member of leadership at the company with “ultimate authority over the facility’s … [Read more...] about What is a SMO in the New NISPOM Rule?
How to Integrate Values into Your Company and Make Them Matter
Using your values statement to take your business to the next level A set of company values have long been considered an important part of setting the tone of company culture and success. Your values are what can unify your employees, which in turn will create a better company culture and increase productivity. “The two most important things for any group of people are a clear sense of mission … [Read more...] about How to Integrate Values into Your Company and Make Them Matter
The Best Practices for Your Self-Inspection
Tips and tricks for NISP contractors to get the most of their self-inspection For facilities holding a Facility Clearance (FCL), the annual inspection is one of the most important parts of maintaining their security standards and a requirement under 32 CFR Part 117, NISPOM. This is your best chance to discover any vulnerabilities your facility has, whether it is gaps in employees’ security … [Read more...] about The Best Practices for Your Self-Inspection
Building a Foundation of Trust to Become a Better Leader
Trusting and being trusted is the core of leadership Trust informs many of the decisions we make day-to-day: You trust your children’s school to take care of them, you trust your carpool to get you to work and home safely, you trust your work team to help you get projects done. Trust is inherently risky, as people can let you down, and yet you cannot serve as a leader in a company without … [Read more...] about Building a Foundation of Trust to Become a Better Leader
