Unauthorised Access: Physical Penetration Testing For IT Security Teams

D.1.2. Levels of Clearance in the United Kingdom

There are different levels of clearance that individuals are subject to depending on the nature, sensitivity, and duration of access to information, assets and personnel.

D.1.2.1. Basic Check

These are not formal security clearances. A basic check (BC) provides only a basic level of assurance about the trustworthiness and integrity of individuals whose work may involve access to CONFIDENTIAL assets or information. For individuals who will definitely be working with protectively marked data, a higher clearance is usually sought. The check is carried out by reviewing official identity documents and sometimes references. The goal of a BC is to verify the following:

• Identity

• Signature

• Address

• Employment history

• Education.

D.1.2.2. Counter-Terrorism Check

A counter-terrorism check (CTC) is required for personnel whose work involves regular close proximity to public or sensitive figures, gives access to information or material vulnerable to terrorist attack or involves unrestricted access to certain government or commercial establishments. A CTC does not in itself permit access to protectively marked assets and information. The CTC always includes a basic check and a check against national security records. To gain CTC clearance, you have to have been resident in the United Kingdom for a minimum of three years, although you are not required to be a British citizen.

D.1.2.3. Security Check

A security check (SC) is for personnel who will ...