An individual who is financially overextended is at risk of engaging in illegal acts to generate funds. Amount of debt determines, in part, how stressed and desperate a person is as a result of financial problems. If a person is not at fault for the financial problems and is dealing with them in a reasonable manner, security concern is substantially alleviated. On the other hand, debts caused by irresponsible or impulsive behavior or by gambling, alcohol abuse or drug abuse are a serious concern. A person who is irresponsible in fulfilling financial obligations may be irresponsible in fulfilling other obligations, such as following the rules for protecting classified information.
Financial stress is common among a large segment of the population.
Many immature young persons go through a period of difficulty adjusting to the temptations of easy credit. Most people with financial difficulties do not view crime as an appropriate means of solving their problems, but the few who do are a serious concern. Of recent spies who betrayed their country for money, about half were motivated by some real or perceived urgent financial need, and about half by personal greed. 4 Greedy individuals often have a compulsive need for money or goods as a measure of success or as a source of self-esteem, influence, power, or control. Sources for More Information Lots of information is available, as this is such a common problem.