What not to write on your security clearance form (1988) (milk.com)

Article summary

The article tells the story of a 12-year-old boy who created a cipher code with his friend, which was later found by the FBI and led to an investigation, suspecting him of being a Japanese spy. The boy's mother was visited by an FBI agent, and the code key was kept by the FBI. Years later, when the boy needed a security clearance, he was advised to conceal this incident. The story highlights the absurdity and paranoia of the time, as well as the problems with security clearance forms.

Main themes

• security clearance
• bureaucratic absurdity
• racial classification
• historical context
• law enforcement
• government agencies
• personal stories
• international connections
• system design

What commenters say

• Some commenters found the story amusing and relatable, sharing their own experiences with security clearance forms and bureaucratic absurdities.
• Others discussed the historical context of racial classification and its ongoing impact on society, with some expressing frustration and disappointment.
• A few commenters noted that the FBI's actions in the story were likely driven by zeal and a desire for glory, rather than a genuine concern for national security.
• Some argued that the story highlights the importance of critical thinking and supervision in law enforcement and government agencies.
• A few commenters shared their own experiences with similar situations, such as being questioned by TSA or customs, and the strategies they used to navigate these encounters.
• There were also discussions about the challenges of filling out security clearance forms, particularly for individuals with international connections or complex personal histories.
• Some commenters reflected on the ongoing legacy of racism and xenophobia in the US, and the ways in which these attitudes continue to shape policy and practice.
• A few noted that the story has a programming-related lesson, highlighting the importance of careful design and consideration in creating systems and forms.