Continued Lack of Funding for DHS Employees Creates an Increased Risk of Exploitation by Foreign Operatives

The on-going political drama created by our elected officials resulting in thousands of Department of Homeland Security employees going without a paycheck for the second month in a row is deplorable. These hard-working and dedicated civil servants having to work without getting paid is causing a huge strain on their finances. Many of them who are lower in grade live from paycheck to paycheck. As noted on the daily news, the percentage of employees calling out sick or even quitting so they can work somewhere else and get paid is increasing by the week.

This is also a dream scenario for foreign intelligence operatives who want to find individuals with security clearances that they can exploit. As has been noted for many years on our “Top Reasons for Security Clearance Denials” publication, financial considerations has been and will continue to be the number one reason for denying someone a clearance. With that thought in the back of their minds, it would not be surprising for some who are trying to figure out how to pay the bills and keep their security clearance, to perhaps be enticed by offers of cash payments in return for classified or sensitive information.

If you are a DHS employee in this predicament, there are other avenues to pursue in order to take care of yourself and your families. There are non-profits and large companies across the country who are providing donations of monetary assistance, food, clothing, and personal care items. Do not put your future in jeopardy by looking for a quick cash trade with a foreign agent. Ask for help; there are plenty of people out there who know what you are going through and are providing assistance.