Combating insider threat through the Continuing Evaluation Program

  • Published
  • By Deborah DeTora and Mary Lyons
  • 66th Air Base Group Information Protection Office
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  What do the Navy Yard shooting by Aaron Alexis, the Fort Hood shooting by Nidal Hasan and the thefts and unauthorized release of classified material by Bradley Manning and Edward Snowden all have in common? 

According to after-action and investigation reports, all of the personnel exhibited signs of reportable behaviors which, left untreated, produced devastating results.

As a reminder, DoD and AF supervisors and co-workers are obligated to report problems or changes in an individual's status or behavior under the DoD 5200.2-R, DoD Personnel Security Program, Continuing Evaluation Program.

Reporting can possibly prevent occurrences such as these recent events by limiting exposure to information/personnel and - more importantly - obtaining help for the individual exhibiting at-risk behaviors. 

CEP is considered the most important, but least understood and possibly the most underutilized evaluation tool available to managers when dealing with an insider threat. There are several areas of concern identified in the DoD guidance: changes in attitude or allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal activity, financial indebtedness, drug or alcohol abuse, emotional and mental instability, repeated security violations or failure to follow security procedures and misuse of information technology systems. Most areas can be mitigated if help is obtained for the individual before he or she reaches the point of no return.   

There are several Wingman helping agencies available to civilians and military.    The Employee Assistance Program offers services for financial, emotional, relationship, family and alcohol-related problems. The EAP can be reached 24/7 at 1-800-222-0364 or www.foh.dhhs.gov. Military members can obtain assistance through the Airman and Family Readiness Center, 781-225-2765. 

The Information Protection Office recommends that supervisors and leaders review the Supervisor's Guide to Security Responsibilities available on the X drive under ABW-IP\Product Tools\Supervisor Booklet.

For more information regarding CEP, email the 66th Air Base Group IP office at 66.abg.ip.cmb@us.af.mil.