Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is cryptology?
2. How has cryptology influenced American history?
3. Where can I learn more about our nation's cryptologic heritage?

1. What is cryptology?

Cryptology is the art and science of making and breaking codes and ciphers. NSA is responsible for creating the systems that protect U.S. communications and for analyzing systems and communications used by foreign powers. Making a code or cipher system is called cryptography. Those who try to "break" a cryptosystem are practicing cryptanalysis.

2. How has cryptology influenced American history?

Code making and code breaking have influenced America's history. During the Civil War, both Union and Confederate soldiers sent encrypted messages and intercepted enemy communications. In 1917, British decryption of the Zimmermann Telegram helped push the United States into World War I.

Intelligence derived by solving many Japanese and German systems gave Allied forces an edge in many World War II battles - on land and at sea - arguably shortening the war and saving countless lives.

Protecting U.S. communications was likewise as important to the Allied victory in WWII as reading the enemy's messages. The Marine Corps and Army trained Native Americans in radio communications. They used their own languages and code words to confuse enemy soldiers who may have been listening. The Army and Navy also used the SIGABA, an extremely complex cipher machine, to encrypt messages. The enemy never broke the Navajo code talkers or the SIGABA code, giving the United States a clear advantage. The Cold War saw cryptology foster the development of new communications and computer technology. Today's supercomputers, encrypted cell phones, and verification systems owe some of their development to work done for the NSA/CSS.

The NSA continues to provide and protect vital information, shaping America's history and contributing to the nation's cryptologic heritage.

3. Where can I learn more about our nation's cryptologic heritage?

The National Cryptologic Museum collection contains thousands of artifacts illustrating the rich history of cryptology. The museum also has a research library with a unique collection of commercial code books, declassified NSA documents, and transcribed oral histories. The museum, adjacent to NSA headquarters in Fort Meade, Maryland, is open to the public. School groups and civic organizations are welcome. Group tours may be scheduled in advance by calling 301-688-5849.

1. Who works at the National Security Agency/Central Security Service?
2. How do I become an NSA employee?
3. My company can help NSA. How can I get a contract?
4. Can NSA help my company test its systems for security or protect its information?
5. I need to verify employment of an NSA employee. Where do I go?

 

1. Who works at the National Security Agency/Central Security Service (NSA/CSS)?

The NSA/CSS workforce comprises civilian employees and military service members-Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. A diverse array of professionals is represented including: mathematicians, civil engineers, electrical engineers, intelligence analysts, language analysts, physicists, computer scientists, researchers, security officers, data flow experts, budget analysts, contract specialists, finance managers, and many more.

2. How do I become an NSA employee?

As one of the nation's premiere intelligence agencies, NSA offers unique and challenging employment opportunities. Because we protect some of our nation's most coveted information while exploiting that of our adversaries, each NSA employee must be a loyal, trustworthy U.S. citizen and must qualify for a TOP SECRET clearance. For more about careers and the hiring process, visit the careers section of our web site and check out full-time employment opportunities or one of the many scholarship, internship, or high school work/study programs. Once you find something that fits your interests and qualifications, you can apply online.

3. My company can help NSA. How can I get a contract?

Register with the NSA Acquisition Resource Center at www.nsaarc.net to highlight your company's capabilities and identify a point of contact. For more information, visit the Doing Business With Us section.

4. Can NSA help my company test its systems for security or protect its information?

As part of our cybersecurity mission, NSA provides guidance, products, and services to protect classified and unclassified national security systems against exploitation from interception, unauthorized access, or related technical intelligence threats. If your company provides support to defense or national security, you may qualify for assistance. Check the cybersecurity section of our web site for more information.

5. I need to verify employment of an NSA employee. Where do I go?

National Security Agency has implemented a new automated Verification of Employment (VOE) process for current NSA employees.

As such, NSA will no longer accept VOE requests via fax or phone from external third party companies. Third party requests will only be accepted for previous NSA employees. Please clearly state that the employee is a previous employee in your request.

Current NSA employees must use the new streamlined tool to submit requests directly to the VOE office.

For questions call the VOE Office - 301-688-8713
The hours of operation are - 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

What is FISA Section 702?
Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) is a key foreign intelligence authority
that helps keep the United States, its citizens, and allies safe and secure. The authority allows the U.S.
government to collect information from individual foreign intelligence targets located overseas who
use U.S. electronic communications services such as email and telephone. Intelligence from Section 702
is used every day to protect the nation from critical threats, inform U.S. Government strategy, and save
American lives.

How does NSA decide which foreign persons to target with FISA Section 702?
NSA uses the authority to collect the communications of specified foreign targets likely to possess, receive,
or communicate foreign intelligence information. NSA’s use of Section 702 authority is highly focused
and limited - acquiring the communications of specific foreign actors overseas and using those details to
answer intelligence requirements given to NSA by U.S. policymakers, such as illuminating terrorist plots,
understanding the strategic intentions of China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, and identifying cyber threats
to the United States and its allies.

Does NSA use FISA Section 702 to target Americans?
The exclusive focus of 702 is specific foreign persons who are physically located outside of the U.S. and
who have or are likely to communicate foreign intelligence that satisfies the carefully vetted intelligence
requirements of U.S. policy makers. The targeting of a foreign person with the goal of gathering the
communications of an American is strictly prohibited. Other provisions of FISA address the circumstances in
which the government may seek court approval to conduct electronic surveillance against an American.

How does NSA ensure FISA Section 702 is compliant with the law?
The government has instituted many safeguards and levels of oversight to ensure that NSA uses FISA
Section 702 lawfully and in a way that protects the privacy and civil liberties of Americans. These
safeguards include a comprehensive and robust internal oversight program, as well as, external oversight
from all three branches of government, including by the U.S. Congress, federal judges, and independent
review by the U.S. Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, which has issued public statements and
reports on the effectiveness of NSA’s compliance program. In addition, the government has reaffirmed its
commitment to using this authority in ways that protect the privacy and civil liberties of non-U.S. persons
through Executive Order 14086.

Is there an alternative foreign intelligence authority that could replace 702?
No, there is no substitute for 702. Much of the U.S. government’s most valuable intelligence, including
from high-priority targets, relies on Section 702 collection. The authority, which expires in December 2023,
provides irreplaceable insights into this country’s most pressing national security concerns. Since Congress
enacted the authority in 2008, the U.S. Intelligence Community’s lawful and appropriate use of 702 has
provided critical military and intelligence insights, including into some of the world’s most dangerous
foreign actors.

 

1. How are the activities of the NSA/CSS regulated and who monitors them?
2. What defines the Intelligence Role of NSA/CSS?
3. Who is considered a U.S. Person?
4. Are U.S. persons outside of the United States afforded protection?
5. Couldn't NSA simply ask its allies to provide them with information about U.S. persons?
6. How does the NSA/CSS ensure its employees are aware of and abide by the regulations?
7. How can I find out if the government has records on me?
8. Where can I report government fraud, waste and abuse?

 

1. How are the activities of the NSA regulated and who monitors them?

The U.S. Constitution, federal law, executive order, and regulations of the Executive Branch govern NSA's activities. As a Defense Agency, NSA operates under the authority of the Department of Defense. As a member of the Intelligence Community, NSA also operates under the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. NSA/CSS activities are subject to strict scrutiny and oversight both from outside and from within. External bodies such as the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI) and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (SSCI), the President's Intelligence Oversight Board, the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, the Department of Defense, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and the Department of Justice help ensure that NSA adheres to U.S. laws and regulations that are applicable to the Agency's activities. Internally, the Office of the Inspector General conducts inspections, audits, and investigations to make certain that NSA/CSS operates with integrity, efficiency, and effectiveness while the Office of the General Counsel provides legal advice. The Office of Compliance ensures the Agency conforms to the standards, policies, and standards under which it operates. Most importantly, each NSA/CSS employee is charged with knowing, understanding, and obeying to the fullest the laws of the nation.

2. What defines the intelligence role of NSA?

Executive Order 12333 (EO 12333) authorizes agencies of the intelligence community to obtain reliable intelligence information, consistent with applicable Federal law and EO 12333, with full consideration of the rights of U.S. persons. Pursuant to EO 12333, NSA is authorized to collect, process, analyze, produce, and disseminate signals intelligence information and data for foreign intelligence and counterintelligence purposes to support national and departmental missions, and to provide signals intelligence support for the conduct of military operations. The executive order, however, prohibits the collection, retention, or dissemination of information about U.S. persons except pursuant to procedures established by the head of the agency and approved by the Attorney General.

3. Who is considered a U.S. Person?

Federal law and executive order define a U.S. Person as:

• A citizen of the United States;
• An alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence;
• An unincorporated association with a substantial number of members who are citizens of the U.S. or are aliens lawfully admitted for permanent residence; or,
• A corporation that is incorporated in the U.S.

4. Are U.S. persons outside of the United States afforded protection?

Yes, the privacy rights of U.S. persons are protected regardless of their location.

5. Couldn't NSA simply ask its allies to provide them with information about U.S. persons?

NSA is prohibited from requesting an ally to undertake activities that NSA itself is prohibited from conducting.

6. How does the NSA ensure its employees are aware of and abide by the regulations?

The NSA conducts extensive training of its employees to ensure that the work force is aware of and understands the regulations governing NSA activities. The members of the NSA workforce charged with foreign intelligence production receive very specific training advising them of their responsibility to protect the privacy of U.S. persons. Access to intelligence information is contingent upon the completion of such training sessions.

7. How can I find out if the government has records on me?

Both the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Privacy Act (PA) establish procedures for individuals to seek access to government records. The FOIA is a statute that gives anyone the right to seek access to government records. Since NSA is authorized by law to collect only foreign intelligence information, we would not ordinarily expect to find intelligence information about U.S. persons. Although you may submit a FOIA request for intelligence records, because our intelligence activities are classified, we generally are unable to acknowledge whether or not we hold intelligence information on individuals. Personnel management files, however, are maintained on NSA affiliates. Typical NSA records that fall under the Privacy Act include personnel, security, training, and medical records of NSA employees, applicants, and other affiliates. These records are accessible to the person whose name or personal identifier appears on the file.

8. Where can I report government fraud, waste and abuse?

The NSA Office of the Inspector General (OIG) is the agent for individual and organizational integrity within the Agency. The Inspector General has the authority to conduct inspections, audits, investigations, special inquiries, and other reviews relating to the programs or operations of NSA. This oversight authority promotes economy, effectiveness, efficiency, and accountability within the Agency; ensures compliance with laws and regulations; and assists in detecting and preventing fraud, waste, and mismanagement in NSA programs and operations.

If you observe or are aware of instances of fraud, waste, or abuse, we ask that you report your concern to the OIG Hotline. Phone: (301) 688-6327 Fax: (443) 479-5105

Disability Hiring
Reasonable Accommodations Process
Reasonable Accommodations and HireVue
Reasonable Accommodations in Applicant Processing
Medical Devices
Reasonable Accommodations in the Workplace
Work Environment
Transportation/Housing
 

Does NSA hire under Schedule A special hiring authority?

The NSA external hiring is under the authorization of DCIPS, Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System rather than under the hiring authority of Schedule A or Selective Placement. Therefore, all external applicants must apply online with the NSA for consideration.

Does NSA hire and accommodate those who are 100% disabled?

NSA hires qualified individuals with disabilities and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities.

What is a reasonable accommodation?

A reasonable accommodation is a change in the workplace that allows a person with a disability to fulfill essential job duties and engage in benefits and privileges of employment.

Who manages reasonable accommodations at NSA?

The Office of Reasonable Accommodations & Accessibility manages the reasonable accommodation process. Contact the Reasonable Accommodations Managers by phone: 301-688-7779, or by email: reasonableaccommodations@uwe.nsa.gov with "Reasonable Accommodations Request" on the subject line. Within the body of the email, include your name and information regarding your request for a reasonable accommodation.

Whom do I contact if I need a reasonable accommodation during applicant processing?

Contact the Office of Reasonable Accommodations and Accessibility by email reasonableaccommodations@uwe.nsa.gov, with "Accommodation Request" on the subject line. Within the body of the email, include your name and information regarding your request for a reasonable accommodation.

Whom do I contact if I need personal assistive services during applicant processing?

Contact the Office of Reasonable Accommodations and Accessibility by phone: 301-688-7779 or by email:
reasonableaccommodations@uwe.nsa.gov, with "Personal Assistance Services Request" on the subject line. Within the body of the email, include your name and information regarding your request for personal assistance services.

What is required for my applicant reasonable accommodation request?

School accommodation documents and medical documentation are some of the documents accepted to support the request for a reasonable accommodation.

Is it a hard, or a long process to get a reasonable accommodation in order to work at NSA?​

You will receive acknowledgement of your accommodation request within five (5) days. The process is individualized because each situation and person is different. We recommend communicating your need for a reasonable accommodation as early as possible in your applicant processing. Contact the Office of Reasonable Accommodations and Accessibility by email reasonableaccommodations@uwe.nsa.gov, with "Accommodation Request" on the subject line. Within the body of the email, include your name and information about your request for a reasonable accommodation.

I have an interview/test scheduled but I need to reschedule, what should I do?

If your request is to reschedule, please contact the following POC's:
 
 Hirevue interview please contact NSA_Hirevue@uwe.nsa.gov
 
 Psych, Polygraph, SI Testing or Language Testing please contact App_Scheduling@uwe.nsa.gov
 
 Pearson or Specific Data Testing please contact PreHire_Testing@uwe.nsa.gov

Can I have more time for the HireVue interview recorded response?

Yes, this accommodation can be approved if needed due to a disability.

Should I proceed with my HireVue interview if I have not been contacted regarding my accommodations request?

No, do NOT proceed with the HireVue interview until you receive approval/denial of your reasonable accommodation request. A new link will be sent with "Accommodation" in the position title and email subject. If your reasonable accommodations request is denied, and six (6) or more days have passed, contact your position POC (listed in your initial Hirevue interview email) to receive a new link for the interview.

I am a person with a disability that is experiencing problems with the HireVue Tool, what should I do?

Contact the Hirevue Team by email: NSA_Hirevue@uwe.nsa.gov. Detail your name and the location and nature of the issue in the HireVue Tool. The Hirevue Team will work with you to find a solution.

I am deaf and use sign language. How do I complete the HireVue interview?​

Please respond to the questions using sign language and a Sign Language Interpreter will interpret your responses for the hiring manager.

Can I have more time to take the pre-hire test?

A reasonable accommodation can include additional time to complete the tests required for applicant processing for individuals with disabilities needing this accommodation.

What if I need a locker due to my disability to store my cell phone for one of my pre-hire appointments?

Contact the Office of Reasonable Accommodations and Accessibility by email: ReasonableAccommodations@uwe.nsa.gov, and state that due to your disability, you will need to reserve a cell phone locker for your applicant processing.

How can I obtain approval for my medical device?
 
If you are required to maintain possession of medically necessary device(s), man-made objects/foreign objects located inside or outside your body that may or may not be electronic (to include, but not limited to: hearing aids, glucose devices, insulin pumps, pace makers, etc.) inside NSA facilities, you will need to complete a medical device questionnaire. Your device will need approval prior to entry/exit into NSA facilities. Request the questionnaire at DL A5124_ALL@nsa.gov. It will need to be completed and submitted immediately to begin the approval process. Please allow two weeks for processing your request.
 
My mobility device has electronic features, what should I do?

If you are required to maintain possession of medically necessary device(s), man-made objects/foreign objects located inside or outside your body that may or may not be electronic (to include, but not limited to: prosthetics, wheelchairs, etc.) inside NSA Facilities, you will need to complete a medical device questionnaire. Your device will need approval prior to entry/exit into NSA facilities. Request the questionnaire at DL A5124_ALL@nsa.gov. It will need to be completed and submitted immediately to begin the approval process. Please allow two weeks for processing your request.

 Are insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors considered medical devices?
 
If you are required to maintain possession of medically necessary device(s), man-made objects/foreign objects located inside or outside your body that may or may not be electronic (to include, but not limited to: hearing aids, glucose devices, insulin pumps, pace makers, etc.) inside NSA facilities, you will need to complete a medical device questionnaire. Your device will need approval prior to entry/exit into NSA facilities. Request the questionnaire at DL A5124_ALL@nsa.gov. It will need to be completed and submitted immediately to begin the approval process. Please allow two weeks for processing your request.

Are there Lactation Support Services at NSA?
 
Yes, NSA's Lactation Support Program provides nursing accommodations including private space and reasonable break time to express breast milk.
 
Do I need a medical or security approval for use of a breast pump?
 
If you are required to maintain possession of medically necessary device(s), man-made objects/foreign objects located inside or outside your body that may or may not be electronic (to include, but not limited to: hearing aids, glucose devices, insulin pumps, pace makers, etc.) inside NSA facilities, you will need to complete a medical device questionnaire. Your device will need approval prior to entry/exit into NSA facilities. Request the questionnaire at DL A5124_ALL@nsa.gov. It will need to be completed and submitted immediately to begin the approval process. Please allow two weeks for processing your request.
 
As a blind person, are there any accommodations or special devices on the computers that would help me?
 
NSA supports many Assistive Technology hardware and software accommodations, including those needed for a person who is blind or low-vision, enabling the person to perform their essential job duties.
 
Can I take breaks often due to my disability?
 
The Office of Reasonable Accommodations & Accessibility, ORAA, can work with you to identify what accommodations are possible. It is advisable to contact ORAA ahead of time if you know you have a disability. If you are a person with a disability, ORAA will work with you and your immediate supervisor to provide any adaptations to your work schedule and/or assistive technologies that may or may not be possible.

If I get hired into the Agency, will my new office have the necessary equipment for Deaf & Hard of Hearing in order for me to do my job?

Every job is different, and the Agency tries hard to make as many accommodations as they can. However, if an individual needs any type of accommodation in order to perform their daily job duties, they must contact the Office of Reasonable Accommodations & Accessibility (ReasonableAccommodations@uwe.nsa.gov) to see what support is available to assist them.

Are service dogs allowed at work?

Yes, people with disabilities have been using service animals successfully in the workplace for many years. Service animals may accompany a person with a disability while in the work environment to assist with activities of daily living. Please note, NSA permits service dogs only; comfort pets, and therapy dogs are not permitted. Approval by the Office of Reasonable Accommodations & Accessibility, ORAA, is required to have a service dog in the workplace.

Can I use marijuana for pain relief purposes if I have a medicinal card and maintain a clearance?

No, despite the legalization of the use of marijuana for medicinal or limited recreational use under certain state laws, the use of marijuana for any purpose remains a violation of federal law. The Director of the Office of Personnel Management and the Director of National Intelligence have affirmed that persons who engage in such use are not suitable for federal employment and are ineligible to hold a security clearance.

Are the work schedules flexible?

Flexible work schedules exist. However, all employees have a documented duty schedule based on the business hours of the office.

Is telework available?
 
The Agency has telework and hybrid work schedule options that are dependent on the availability of unclassified work within a particular mission.

Are the bathrooms wheelchair accessible?

Yes, there are handicapped stalls in every bathroom.
           
What is a cell phone locker and how do I apply for one?

There are two kinds of cell phone lockers around the Agency, those managed by the Commuter Transportation Center (CTC), and in some locations, limited facilities services lockers for daily use on a first come first served basis. The lockers managed by CTC are for public transportation riders and others who may qualify. Employees who are part of the Mass Transit Benefit Program, cyclists, and those with a valid motorcycle license are eligible for an assigned locker and are not to be shared. Once hired, you can apply for a CTC locker on their webpage.

If you are a person with a disability that requires use of a cellphone locker due to a disability during your pre-employment processing, contact the Office of Reasonable Accommodations and Accessibility by email: ReasonableAccommodations@uwe.nsa.gov.


How can I get handicapped parking?

Candidates that require handicap parking for applicant processing should email Pre_employment_accommodations@uwe.nsa.gov and provide a copy of the disability ID card, vehicle type and tag, along with a copy of the handicap plaque.
 
Once hired, employees can apply for a handicap parking permit after registering their vehicle with the Agency's Commuter Transportation Center, CTC. Individuals must present proper certification from a state's vehicle administration or a letter from the Veteran's Administration to be issued Handicap and Temporary Handicap permits.

 I need help with transportation getting to and from work. Can NSA help with that?

It is the employees’ responsibility to get to and from work. NSA does offer some shuttle services from a nearby MARC train station to main the NSAW campus. The local counties do provide Paratransit services that many employees use to get to and from work.

As a new employee, will NSA help me find housing?

Unfortunately NSA does not provide housing assistance.

1. What is Signals Intelligence
2. How are the activities of the NSA/CSS regulated and who monitors them
3. What Defines the Intelligence Role of NSA/CSS?
4. Who is considered a U.S. Person?
5. Are U.S. persons outside the United States afforded protection?
6. Couldn't NSA simply ask its allies to provide them with information about U.S. persons?
7. How does the NSA/CSS ensure its employees are aware of and abide by the regulations?

 

1. What is Signals Intelligence?

SIGINT involves collecting foreign intelligence from communications and information systems and providing it to customers across the U.S. government, such as senior civilian and military officials. They then use the information to help protect our troops, support our allies, fight terrorism, combat international crime and narcotics, support diplomatic negotiations, and advance many other important national objectives.

NSA collects SIGINT from various sources, including foreign communications, radar and other electronic systems. This information is frequently in foreign languages and dialects, is protected by codes and other security measures, and involves complex technical characteristics. NSA needs to collect and understand the information, interpret it, and get it to our customers in time for them to take action. Our workforce is deeply skilled in a wide range of highly technical fields that allow them to this work, and they develop and employ state-of-the-art tools and systems that are essential to success in today's fast-changing communications and information environment. Our researchers are working constantly to help us anticipate and prepare for future developments.

2. How are the activities of the NSA/CSS regulated and who monitors them?

The U.S. Constitution, federal law, executive order, and regulations of the Executive Branch govern NSA's activities. As a defense agency, NSA operates under the authority of the Department of Defense. As a member of the Intelligence Community, NSA also operates under the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. NSA/CSS activities are subject to strict scrutiny and oversight both from the outside and from within. External bodies such as the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI) and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (SSCI), the President's Intelligence Oversight Board, the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Justice provide oversight to ensure the Agency's adherence to U.S. laws and regulations. Internally, the Office of the Inspector General conducts inspections, audits, and investigations to make certain that NSA/CSS operates with integrity, efficiency, and effectiveness, while the Office of the General Counsel provides legal advice. Most importantly, each NSA/CSS employee is charged with knowing, understanding, and obeying to the fullest the laws of the nation.

3. What Defines the intelligence role of NSA?

Executive Order 12333 (EO 12333) authorizes agencies of the Intelligence Community to obtain reliable intelligence information, consistent with applicable Federal law and EO 12333, with full consideration of the rights of U.S. persons. Pursuant to EO 12333, NSA is authorized to collect, process, analyze, produce, and disseminate Signals Intelligence information and data for foreign intelligence and counterintelligence purposes to support national and departmental missions, and to provide signals intelligence support for the conduct of military operations. The executive order, however, prohibits the collection, retention, or dissemination of information about U.S. persons except pursuant to procedures established by the head of the agency and approved by the Attorney General.

4. Who is considered a U.S. person?

Federal law and executive order define a U.S. person as:

• a citizen of the United States;
• an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence;
• an unincorporated association with a substantial number of members who are citizens of the U.S. or are aliens lawfully admitted for permanent residence; or
• a corporation that is incorporated in the U.S.

5. Are U.S. persons outside the United States afforded protection?

Yes, the privacy rights of U.S. persons are protected regardless of their location.

6. Couldn't NSA simply ask its allies to provide them with information about U.S. persons?

No. NSA is prohibited from requesting any person to undertake activities that NSA itself is prohibited from conducting.

7. How does the NSA ensure its employees are aware of and abide by the regulations?

The NSA conducts extensive training of its employees to ensure that the workforce is aware and understands the regulations governing NSA activities. The members of the NSA workforce charged with foreign intelligence production receive very specific training advising them of their responsibility to protect the privacy of U.S. persons. Access to intelligence information is contingent upon the completion of such training sessions.