FBI Knock and Talk: What Happens and What It Means for Your Security Clearance

Have you ever wondered what happens when the FBI shows up at your front door for what’s called a ‘knock and talk’ and whether it could affect your security clearance? Today we’re breaking down a real discussion from the ClearanceJobsBlog forums where someone shared their experience, and experts weighed in on what it means for the security clearance process.

What Is an FBI “Knock and Talk”?

A knock and talk is an investigative technique used by the FBI and other federal law enforcement agencies where agents come to your home, knock on your door, and ask to speak with you, all without a warrant.

It’s typically used when there’s no probable cause yet to obtain a warrant, but the agency wants to gather information or potentially obtain your voluntary consent to answer questions or allow a search.

ClearanceJobsBlog Forum Thread: What Happened?

On ClearanceJobsBlog, a user shared that they had been visited by the FBI for a knock and talk. They chose NOT to speak with them…and nothing came of it.

They asked a few key questions:

🔹 Will this show up in my FBI name check?
🔹 Should I disclose this interaction when applying for a TS/SCI clearance?

Marko Hakamaa, official ClearanceJobsBlog moderator says, “You don’t indicate the subject matter of why they wanted to speak with you, but it will have been documented by them in an investigation, therefore it will show up on an FBI name check. If nothing came of it then there is no reason not to disclose it in order to show transparency and that it is not something you were hiding.”

Other contributors note that on the security clearance application, you’re not required to list routine law enforcement attempts to interview you unless the form explicitly asks about being questioned. Some forum members suggested only disclosing it if you’re specifically asked about it in the background interview or polygraph, rather than volunteering the information prematurely. Others cautioned that being transparent (telling the investigator up front that the event happened) may help build credibility in the process.

Ultimately, being subject to a “knock and talk” with the FBI is not automatically a negative. No charges? No arrest? Then it’s generally viewed as neutral. Follow the security clearance application instructions. Only disclose what the form asks you to disclose. But overall, be honest if asked. If your investigator brings it up, answer truthfully. Concealing information can be more damaging than the interaction itself.

Much about the clearance process resembles the Pirate’s Code: “more what you’d call guidelines than actual rules.” For this reason, we maintain ClearanceJobsBlog.com – a forum where clearance seekers can ask the cleared community for advice on their specific security concerns. Ask CJ explores questions posed on the ClearanceJobs Blog forum, emails received, and comments from this site. This article is intended as general information only and should not be construed as legal advice. Consult an attorney regarding your specific situation.