Security Intelligence Background Section
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Context
As of January 2025, the Treasury Board Secretariat of Canada implemented the new Directive on Security Screening (DSS). Annex A1 of the new DSS outlines that, in addition to the existing requirement for a Law Enforcement Record Check (LERC) for an enhanced reliability status, all individuals with a Top Secret clearance now require a Law Enforcement Record Check as part of the mandatory security screening activities.
Who we are
The Security Intelligence Background Section (SIBS) was created in 2009 and currently employs police officers and public service employees. It is the Lead Security Agency (LSA) and Internal Enterprise Service Organization (IESO) for Law Enforcement Record Checks.
Our mandate
The Security Intelligence Background Section assists Government of Canada federal departments and agencies with their enhanced security screening processes. Law Enforcement Record Checks assist the Government of Canada in preventing the infiltration of criminal elements into federally regulated programs and federal organizations, thereby contributing to Canada's public safety and national security.
How it works
Upon receipt of a Law Enforcement Record Check request from a federal department or agency, Security Intelligence Background Section conducts a comprehensive review and analysis of available Canadian and, if applicable, foreign law enforcement databases. It goes beyond a criminal record check as it includes non-conviction information and summarizes police information to allow government organizations to make informed security screening decisions.
Law Enforcement Record Checks are conducted for individuals who will have access to specific restricted locations or access to sensitive information and assets that could impact public safety or national security.
How does a Law Enforcement Record Check differ from a criminal record check?
A Law Enforcement Record Check outlines the following information:
- Criminal charges and convictions
- Associations with criminality or organized crime
- Patterns of high-risk behaviour
A criminal record check provides details on:
- Criminal charges
- Criminal convictions
Contact us
Want to know more? Contact sibs_ures@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
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