What Other Information is Available About Me From DSS?
In the large majority of cases, people are primarily interested in the information about themselves found in the DSS investigative file. However, certain other types of information may be available, although whether any of this additional information exists is unique to each case. An example of other types of information may include, but is not limited to:
- Disclosure Information: That is, records of whether your investigative file or information about your file has ever been released to another agency;
- Industrial Clearance Information: If you have a security clearance because you work for a company that has placed you on a DOD contract requiring a clearance, then the record of that clearance is the property of and may be released to you by DSS.
- General Information: In many instances DSS may be able to answer general questions concerning investigations and clearances. If they can't, they may be able to direct you to a person, office or agency that can.
Is There any DSS Information I May Not Have?
Both the Privacy Act and the Freedom of Information Act permit DSS to exclude information release. Since each investigation is unique, there are an unlimited number of possibilities as to what may be withheld from an individual investigation, however, most of the information falls into one of these three general areas: Information that pertains to another person and release of which would, in DSS's opinion, constitute a violation of their privacy, will be withheld. Information which is currently and properly classified, will be withheld. Information that may tend to identify a source to whom DSS has granted an express promise of confidentiality, will be withheld. If DSS receives your request for your investigation and DSS has a current case open on you, they will not release any information from that current case so long as it is open. DSS routinely checks for completion of the case and will forward the releasable portions to you as soon as they are able.
If there are prior closed DSS investigations DSS will, at your request, consider them for release to you while awaiting the current case to be completed and closed.
In certain instances, DSS encounters medical information that they do not have the expertise to evaluate for release. In those situations, DSS will withhold the information and request you to provide them with the name and address of a physician to whom you wish the records sent, so they may be fully and correctly explained to you.
What if I want a Copy of Any DSS Information That Pertains to Me?
About You - If you wish to request a copy of your DSS investigation, you must send a written request containing the following:
- Your full current name
- Any other names you may have used in the past
- Date of Birth
- Social Security Number
- An originally notarized signature
- A brief description of the records you are seeking
- Any other information that you believe may be useful in their search for records pertaining to you
- Whether you want someone else to receive the records on your behalf (include name and address of the other party)
