Tips and Tricks: Changes in Personal Circumstances - Reporting
July 09, 2024 - Defence Stories
Life can be unpredictable and ever-changing. The Department of National Defence (DND) and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) want to emphasize the critical importance of reporting changes in personal circumstances. Certain changes, such as criminal convictions, significant financial changes, and in some cases alterations to marital status, must be promptly reported. It is essential to helping maintain our security standards.
The accompanying infographic and motion graphic video illustrate the specific circumstances which necessitate reporting.
Visit the toolkit (accessible on the Defence network).
Video / July 9, 2024
Transcript
In the twists and turns of life, no one is immune to significant changes which could have security implications...
Will you be the lucky winner of an unexpected fortune, or will you encounter unforeseen financial problems?
Will you face legal issues that could alter your criminal record?
Could some of your acquaintances pose a security risk for you?
Will you eventually find love and pop the big question, only to realize later that maybe it was a mistake (divorce)?
While these questions may currently remain unanswered for now (or not), if any of these situations change, you must inform your supervisor to help minimize potential security risks others could exploit.
Infographic – Text version
Change in Personal Circumstance Reporting
DND employees and CAF members are required to disclose any significant changes in their personal circumstances. Not reporting those changes could constitute a security concern.
What needs to be reported?
- Change in criminal record status (criminal conviction, suspension of a criminal record or other judicial prohibitions)
- Involvement with law enforcement (suspect in a criminal investigation or arrest)
- Association with criminals
- Significant change in financial situation (bankruptcy or unexpected wealth)
Security & Intelligence
Those who work in those types of organizations may also be required to report changes in marital /spousal status (marriage, divorce, common-law and/or a change of name).
Reporting changes in personal circumstance does not automatically result in a denial or revocation of your security clearance. By informing your supervisor of any changes you help limit the ability for others to exploit a potential risk.
DND and CAF Supervisors
Commanding Officers (CO), directors, managers and supervisors are responsible to identify significant changes in the behaviour or circumstances that may raise a reasonable security concern, surrounding an individual under their command or supervision.
For advice: Contact your manager, supervisor or your Unit Security Supervisor (USS).
For more information: NDSOD Chap 4: Personnel Security, Standard 4B: Individual Security Screening Program, Annex G - Changes in Personal Circumstance (accessible only on the National Defence network)
