What is a potential consequence of failing to meet national security standards?

Failing to meet national security standards can result in the prevention of national security eligibility, which is critical for individuals seeking positions or access that require a security clearance. National security standards are in place to ensure that individuals entrusted with sensitive information or responsibilities can be relied upon to protect that information and the interests of national security. When these standards are not met, it raises concerns about an individual’s reliability, trustworthiness, and overall suitability for roles that may involve exposure to classified information.

Prevention of eligibility means that the individual would not be granted a security clearance nor allowed to take on roles that require one, thereby limiting their career opportunities in sensitive areas, especially within government and defense sectors. Other options, such as increased job responsibilities or promotion opportunities, would not typically arise for someone who has not met the necessary standards, as these advancements usually necessitate a security clearance. Granting of security clearance is inherently contradictory in this context because failure to meet the standards directly prevents such clearance from being granted.