The FBI and other agencies are using polygraphs to find leakers. But do they work?
Briefly

Federal agencies, notably the FBI and Department of Homeland Security, have increased their efforts to find information leakers, employing polygraph tests as a tool. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that polygraphing personnel is necessary for national security and highlighted the potential for strict prosecution of leakers. While the Department of Defense is also on board, they have yet to confirm the actual use of polygraphs. Despite longstanding use in various contexts, the reliability of polygraph tests remains hotly debated, raising concerns about their effectiveness in truly uncovering deceit.
The polygraph test should not be seen as infallible; its reliability has been debated for decades, despite its historical usage in both investigations and security screenings.
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin emphasized the agency’s commitment to national security, stating that leakers will face prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.
The FBI has confirmed reaching out to employees via polygraph tests to find potential leakers, indicating a serious approach to handling national security information.
The origins of the polygraph trace back to over a century ago, conceived by John Larson and commented on for its potential truth-telling capabilities.
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