[Myrddin]

Background checks for security clearances look for evidence of "living beyond your means" i.e. selling secrets for money. They look for drug use as an example of lack of self control and discipline. They look for behaviors that offer leverage for blackmail...mistresses, secretive handling of sexual orientation, gambling, alcholism, lying. Any of those behaviors makes a person unfit to entrust with classified information.

Ordinary, non-classified assignments still involve a level of trust when company proprietary information or money transactions are involved. Employers aren't going to trust an employee with sensitive information without a real thorough check. If that offends you, you shouldn't expect to have access to those kinds of positions. Your compensation and career growth will be limited.

[Allegra]

Background checks for security clearances look for evidence of "living beyond your means" i.e. selling secrets for money. They look for drug use as an example of lack of self control and discipline. They look for behaviors that offer leverage for blackmail...mistresses, secretive handling of sexual orientation, gambling, alcholism, lying. Any of those behaviors makes a person unfit to entrust with classified information.

Yep...when you go for that security clearance, you pretty much have to lay it all on the table. And they do verify your information.