What is the primary role of Cognizant Security Agencies (CSAs)?

• A. Establish general industrial security programs and oversee and administer security requirements.
• B. Issue contracts for government agencies.
• C. Conduct security clearances for private individuals only.
• D. Regulate international trade security.

Answer: (A)

CSAs shape and manage the environment for protecting classified information in industry. Their main job is to establish the general industrial security program and oversee and administer the security requirements that apply to contractors and facilities handling classified material. They provide the policy framework, review and approve security plans, conduct oversight and assessments, and ensure ongoing compliance throughout a contract’s life cycle. They don’t issue government contracts, and the clearance process for individuals is handled by other government processes and agencies, not by the CSAs. They also don’t regulate international trade security.