DHS Aims to Shield Investigative Files From Public

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Privacy Office will soon keep secret more of its files on personnel security clearance and other investigations, according to a recent report.

In a recent proposed rule published in the Federal Register, DHS stated that it is seeking to exempt parts of its Office of Security File System from the [1974 Privacy Act]. The file system will be used beginning Oct. 12 and will contain documentation of background reviews for clearances and espionage investigations…

Other federal agencies reportedly already enjoy the partial exemptions from privacy laws that DHS seeks.

Filed Under: Laws & Regulations, Procedures