Navigating the dos and don’ts of sharing security clearance information can be tricky. While it’s permissible to disclose your clearance level on your resume, caution is advised when it comes to social media.
What You Can Share
- Resume Listings: It’s acceptable to mention your clearance level on your resume. Agencies like the NSA even provide guidelines on how to do this appropriately.
- Basic Information: General job titles and roles can be listed without issue.
What to Avoid Sharing
- Specific Programs: Refrain from mentioning involvement in special access programs (SAPs) or any classified projects.
- Detailed Clearance Information: Avoid listing extensive details about your clearance status or eligibility.
Why You Should Be Cautious on Social Media
- Counterintelligence Risks: Adversaries often scour social media platforms to gather sensitive information.
- Unnecessary Exposure: Recruiters and hiring managers have access to clearance verification systems and don’t rely solely on social media disclosures.
- Professional Discretion: Over-sharing can inadvertently affect your career prospects and compromise security protocols.
Best Practices
- Limit Public Disclosures: Keep your online profiles professional but succinct. If you’re a software developer at a defense company, that’s usually informative enough.
- Use Secure Platforms: If you need to share clearance information, use password-protected sites like ClearanceJobs.com.
- Focus on Skills and Experience: Highlight your certifications, skills, and work experience rather than your clearance level.
While it’s not classified information, publicly advertising your security clearance isn’t advisable. Protect your career and personal security by sharing only what’s necessary and keeping sensitive details off social media. Remember, when in doubt, less is more.
