The different security clearance systems of record may show different determinations if an Facility Security Officer uses your social security number to look you up in either:
- Different Agencies, Different Timelines: Updates don’t always sync in real-time. If one agency grants or suspends access, it might not be reflected in both systems immediately.
- You Can Hold an Active Clearance in One But Not the Other: For example, your TS/SCI might be active in Scattered Castles, but DISS only shows a Secret because the SCI portion was never granted by DoD.
ShadowPhoenix96 writes:
I’m getting ready to start a new position as a contractor for DoD. I have a TS/SCI with a CI. My current FSO checked on SC and it says that I was enrolled in CE [Continuous Evaluation] with DoD as of last week. On DISS it shows in process still though? I’m a bit confused since I figured you would have to be crossed over fully to be enrolled in CE?
CE/Continuous Vetting (CV) enrollment history records are visible in DISS and the CV enrollment history will display the CV enrollment reason code and the date of the enrollment or dis-enrollment into the DoD’s CV program.
What You Should Do
If you suspect a discrepancy:
- Ask your FSO (Facility Security Officer) to check both systems.
- Clarify what level of clearance and access you’re being sponsored for, especially if you’re moving between IC and DoD roles.
- Keep your own records of adjudication letters, polygraph dates, and clearance sponsors.
Difference Between Scattered Castles and DISS
Understanding the difference between Scattered Castles and the Defense Information Security System (DISS) is important for those involved in defense and security clearances. Both are tools used within the defense and security sectors, but they serve different functions and purposes.
Scattered Castles
Scattered Castles is a database used primarily by the U.S. Intelligence Community. Its main function is to maintain and manage security clearance information for intelligence personnel. Here are some key features:
- Purpose: Scattered Castles is designed to track and manage the security clearances and accesses for intelligence community personnel, contractors, and some military members. It is used to ensure that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive information.
- User Base: Primarily used by agencies within the intelligence community, including the CIA, NSA, and others, to store and share clearance information.
- Data: The database includes information on security clearances, accesses, and eligibility for personnel within the intelligence community.
- Access: Access to Scattered Castles is highly restricted, with only authorized personnel within the intelligence community allowed to view or modify the database. Some DoD industry FSOs may not have access to SC.
Defense Information Security System (DISS)
DISS is a system used by the Department of Defense (DoD) for managing security clearance adjudications and investigations. It includes several different components and serves a broader purpose than Scattered Castles:
- Purpose: DISS is used to manage and track the security clearance process across the Department of Defense. It supports the adjudication process, tracks investigations, and provides a platform for communication between various entities involved in the clearance process.
- User Base: DISS is utilized by a wide range of DoD personnel, including service members, civilians, and contractors. It is not limited to the intelligence community.
- Data: The system contains information on all stages of the security clearance process, including investigations, adjudications, and continuous vetting of personnel.
- Access: Access to DISS is granted to authorized DoD personnel who are involved in the security clearance process, with varying levels of access depending on their role.
Key Differences
- Scope: Scattered Castles is focused on the intelligence community, while DISS serves the wider Department of Defense.
- Access and User Base: Scattered Castles has a more restricted user base, limited to intelligence agencies, whereas DISS is accessed by a broader range of defense personnel.
While both Scattered Castles and DISS are essential tools for managing security clearances within the U.S. government, they cater to different sectors and have distinct functionalities. Understanding these differences is crucial for those involved in security and defense roles.
This question was posed from a subscriber at ClearanceJobsBlog.com, where you can read and discuss government security clearance process, how to get a security clearance job, and background investigations issues.
Much about the clearance process resembles the Pirate’s Code: “more what you’d call guidelines than actual rules.” This case-by-case system is meant to consider the whole person, increase process security, and allow the lowest-risk/highest-need candidates to complete the process. This article is intended as general information only and should not be construed as legal advice. Consult an attorney regarding your specific situation.
