Sicherheitsfreigabe

Sicherheitsfreigabe, in English security clearance, is an official authorization that grants individuals access to classified information. The main purpose is to protect national security by ensuring that only trusted personnel can handle sensitive data. The concept is used by states, governments, and military organizations worldwide, each country adapting the procedures to its legal framework and threat environment.

In Germany, a security clearance is issued by the Federal Office of the Interior or the respective armed forces authority. The assessment process includes a background check, verification of identity, financial stability, personal conduct, and any potential foreign influence. Depending on the sensitivity of the information, different clearance levels exist, ranging from "Vertrauensschutz" (basic protection) to higher tiers such as "Top Secret". Applicants must provide detailed personal information and consent to a polygraph or other investigative techniques if required by policy.

The clearance can be granted for a specific duration, typically renewed annually, and may be revoked if the applicant’s circumstances change, for example, if they acquire dual citizenship or exhibit behaviors that raise security concerns. Personnel with a clearance may be subjected to periodic re-evaluation, which can involve interviews, updated background checks, and monitoring of financial and personal activities.

Internationally, processes differ in depth and criteria but share common goals: to assess potential risks, maintain trust, and safeguard confidential state information. In the United States, the Department of Defense uses the Public Trust and Top Secret, SCI, and Sensitive Compartmented Information designations, similar in principle to the German system yet distinct in procedural detail.