What is the evaluation process of information from national security background investigations called?

The process of evaluating information from national security background investigations is known as adjudication. During adjudication, a thorough examination is conducted to determine an individual's suitability for access to classified information or a sensitive position. This involves assessing various factors such as criminal history, financial stability, foreign contacts, and any other personal circumstances that may affect trustworthiness and reliability in relation to national security.

The adjudication process adheres to guidelines established by the federal government, which help decision-makers interpret and weigh the evidence gathered during the background investigation. It aims to ensure that individuals granted access to sensitive information or roles possess the necessary character, conduct, and judgment to safeguard national interests.

Other terms like assessment, review, and verification do not specifically capture the comprehensive decision-making process involved in adjudication. For instance, assessment typically refers to the overall analysis or evaluation of a situation without the same focus on suitability determinations. Review might imply going over the findings without implying a final judgment, while verification usually refers to confirming information without the broader context of making security clearance decisions based on multiple factors and evidence strands.