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Just curious. What happens to people with high security clearance who develop dementia (or are mentally compromised somehow)?
lisab said:But what if the person is retired but still has lots of valuable secrets. Dementia sets in, and they loose judgement.
Or they suffer a traumatic brain injury.
Does anyone monitor this, I wonder?
lisab said:Just curious. What happens to people with high security clearance who develop dementia (or are mentally compromised somehow)?
The obvious problem, the one I believe lisab is alluding to, would be them forgetting that it's secret. My first husband had an above top secret clearance and was in Naval Intelligence, I am not aware that they do any follow up, I also had to be investigated in order for him to get his clearance. I don't know what they'd do in the case of them suddenly spewing secrets.MathJakob said:They have dementia, that causes them to forget things. Why should it matter if someone who is retired is forgetting secrets?
dlgoff said:From the experience of moms behavior during the onset of her dementia; the secret wouldn't be forgotten but the 50 or so phone calls to people telling of it would be.
AlephZero said:Apart from applying legal remedies after the event if there was a security breach, what could you do?
In the UK, if you leave a job where you had access to secure information (either commercial or military) you would most likely have to sign a statement that states your ongoing security obligations. Beyond that, there is no technology (except death) to make you forget what you already know.
Evo said:My first husband had an above top secret clearance and was in Naval Intelligence, I am not aware that they do any follow up, I also had to be investigated in order for him to get his clearance. I don't know what they'd do in the case of them suddenly spewing secrets.
He'd had a "Top Secret" level clearance, and then his level was raised, I'm not saying it was actually called "above top secret" :tongue:. IIRC, it was 2 letters, at least I only recall him using 2 letters.nsaspook said:Just to be clear there is no "above top secret clearance", there are 'access' programs like SCI, PRP or SAP and a huge number of 'Compartment' code words or handling specifications.
lisab said:But what happens if someone starts letting things slip? Are they put into some kind of protective custody?
Evo said:The obvious problem, the one I believe lisab is alluding to, would be them forgetting that it's secret. My first husband had an above top secret clearance and was in Naval Intelligence, I am not aware that they do any follow up, I also had to be investigated in order for him to get his clearance. I don't know what they'd do in the case of them suddenly spewing secrets.
MathJakob said:Oh right forgetting it's a secret... Well in that case if someone forgets something is a secret due to a medical illness then they can't be held accountable for their actions. I highly doubt the government would seek imprisonment.
lisab said:I doubt they could prosecute someone who is mentally unsound. I'm not so sure about the imprisonment, though...but maybe they'd call it "protective custody" .
But I can't blame them. If someone knows things that must not be publicized, and that person can't be trusted for some reason - well, I think the authorities have to do what they have to do. I guess it's a case where you have to trust (your government), but can't verify.
evo said:he'd had a "top secret" level clearance, and then his level was raised, I'm not saying it was actually called "above top secret" :tongue:. Iirc, it was 2 letters, at least i only recall him using 2 letters.
Evo said:I only recall him using 2 letters.
Lol, it was back during a war. Obviously, he didn't tell me much.Borek said:Sounds like a boring guy.
I vaguely remember him saying something once, decades ago, it's not like it was an ongoing conversation that I was to remember. I just remember it was a higher clearance than his current top secret due to what he had to do.Student100 said:sci? Yw, l, and q? are the only letters I can think of if in the us. :p They're TS clearances with special access.
Evo said:Lol, it was back during a war. Obviously, he didn't tell me much.
I vaguely remember him saying something once, decades ago, it's not like it was an ongoing conversation that I was to remember. I just remember it was a higher clearance than his current top secret due to what he had to do.
"High Security Clearance With Dementia" refers to the combination of having a high level of security clearance, typically in a government or military setting, while also experiencing symptoms of dementia. This can present challenges and concerns for both the individual and their employer.
It is possible for someone with dementia to maintain a high level of security clearance, as long as they are able to continue performing their duties effectively and securely. However, this may require accommodations and regular assessments to ensure the individual is still able to meet the necessary requirements.
The risks of having "High Security Clearance With Dementia" include potential security breaches due to memory and cognitive impairments, as well as the individual's safety and well-being if they are not able to effectively fulfill their duties. There may also be concerns about the individual's ability to handle sensitive information while experiencing dementia symptoms.
An employer can support an employee with "High Security Clearance With Dementia" by providing accommodations, such as additional training or assistance, regular evaluations, and open communication. It may also be necessary for the employer to re-evaluate the individual's security clearance level and responsibilities as their condition progresses.
Steps to prevent or manage "High Security Clearance With Dementia" include regular evaluations and assessments of employees with high security clearance, providing accommodations and support as needed, and promoting a workplace culture of understanding and inclusivity. Employers may also consider implementing policies and procedures to address potential security risks associated with dementia in the workplace.