Author Archive

Marko Hakamaa

Marko Hakamaa served in various military police positions with the United States Army worldwide for 22 years before retiring in 2006 as a Master Sergeant. Afterwards, he transitioned into the civilian workforce as a contractor background investigator for the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) before entering civil service as a Security Specialist in 2009.

Obtaining Security Clearance

What is the difference between having a security clearance versus being found eligible for a security clearance? This question has confounded many applicants after they have endured the long and arduous national security background investigation process and were told it was favorably adjudicated. Many who thought they were cleared found

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Security Clearance Process

Summer is coming and one of the biggest events on the planet, the 2018 World Cup, is taking place in Russia and Lady Luck has bestowed upon you two tickets to one of the World Cup games for you and a friend to attend. You have made your travel arrangements,

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Security Clearance Denial

As noted in previous articles and blog posts, it is well established that financial issues remain the number one reason for a security clearance denial. Why? Common sense and historical experience have shown that financial difficulties may increase temptation to commit illegal or unethical acts as a means of gaining

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Security Clearance Process

The Defense Security Service (DSS) is preparing to issue a new Industrial Security Letter (ISL) providing guidance for the implementation of Security Executive Agent (SecEA) Directive 4 (SEAD 4), “National Security Adjudicative Guidelines, signed last year by the Director of National Intelligence.  Specifically, guidance is being provided regarding Guideline C:

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