Compulsive spending and other indicators of an inability to manage personal finances can raise questions about judgment. The existence of severe financial problems can also create a possible susceptibility to pressure or influence, which could become a security concern. As with criminal charges that do not result in a conviction, the DOE is concerned with actual behavior that raises a question about an individual's judgment, reliability, or susceptibility to pressure. Therefore, the circumstances leading to a lawsuit might be relevant even if the case is settled without a trial. While the First Amendment generally protects freedom of association, it does not protect the use of violence or other illegal activities designed to overthrow the Government.
False statements are subject to criminal prosecution.
Also, a clearance can be denied or revoked solely because of an intentional falsehood.