Misuse of IT systems

SECURITY CLEARANCE Q&A
1

This is in regards to the section of the sf86 that states:
“In the last seven (7) years have you illegally or without proper authorization accessed or attempted to access any information technology system?”

My current situation:

Basically, 2 1/2 years ago during this time I received a bad grade from my teacher in high school for some assignment. Grades were going to be pulled for report cards I believe the following week or the week after.

So one day, my teacher left the room with her computer unlocked along with the gradebook open. I decided it would be a good idea to edit my grade in the class for that particular assignment. I didn’t want to get in trouble with my parents for having a bad grade in that class.

My teacher later figured out I edited my grade and I was suspended from school for 2 days.

I deeply reflected on my actions when I was suspended and will never do something like that again. This was the first and the last time I ever did something like this.

Question: Would this be a major red flag for a Top Secret investigation? Would I get denied?

2

I do not know, but I think you need to declare and explain it. Honestly, it seems like just something somewhat typical of a teenager that shouldn’t be a problem UNLESS you try to hide it and they find out about it.

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3

That’s a significant action you took to play the system. To be frank, it’s not something the IC needs or wants to risk this day and age where there has been so many ppl abusing IT systems to steal secrets.

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4

I agree with @tenaheff Hopefully youth and inexperience (not to mention sheer foolishness) will mitigate this issue.

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