DIA wants more social media analysis for background checks

The Defense Intelligence Agency wants to step up its analysis of social media use as a way of improving the background investigations it conducts on people seeking security clearances.

DOD’s Virginia Contracting Authority is developing a contract to hire a company to help DIA with social media analysis, according to a recent FBO.gov posting. 

Among the requirements is an ability to check all publicly available social media sites and issue reports that would include the current name, former name and aliases and Social Security number of the person being investigated.

A detailed history of social media usage is required.

The analysis needs to include comparisons of social media profiles, identification of foreign comments/postings and contacts, and any information regarding allegiance to the United States, foreign influence and/or preference. Other information to be reported includes  sexual behavior, personal conduct, alcohol, drug use (legal and illegal), psychological conditions and criminal conduct.

Speed is important. DIA wants 90 percent of ordered reports with routine processing to be completed in five calendar days. Ninety-five percent with expedited processing should be completed within two calendar days.

If a report can’t be completed within those time frames, the contractor will have to provide written notification, which will have to include an action plan to minimize further delays.

Responses to the RFI are due July 20.