Polygraphs to be given to DHS Personnel

Department of Homeland Security implements polygraph tests for staff leaks

Federal agencies expand polygraph testing protocols

The FBI has historically used polygraph screening for potential hires, but significantly increased its use of lie detector tests for employees handling sensitive information after 2001. This shift occurred following the arrest of former FBI agent Robert Hanssen for espionage activities with Russia.

The Pentagon has also joined this trend, announcing in March its plans to investigate national security information leaks through various means, including potential polygraph tests for Defense Department employees.

DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin emphasized the department's commitment to identifying and prosecuting leakers regardless of their position or status within the organization. The agency maintains that such unauthorized disclosures pose significant risks to national security.

McLaughlin stated the department's position on X: The Department of Homeland Security is a national security agency. We can, should, and will polygraph personnel.

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