What is the main purpose of safeguarding FBI CJI data?

The main purpose of safeguarding FBI Criminal Justice Information (CJI) data revolves around preventing unauthorized access and dissemination. CJI data contains sensitive information that, if accessed by individuals not authorized to view it, could lead to significant risks including breaches of privacy, wrongful arrests, and undermining ongoing investigations. Ensuring that access to this data is tightly controlled and monitored is critical for maintaining the integrity of law enforcement operations and protecting the rights of individuals involved.

While making data accessible for law enforcement and allowing for inter-agency data sharing are important aspects of information management, they must always occur within the framework of strict security protocols to prevent unauthorized access. Enhancing visibility for all personnel may sound beneficial; however, it can conflict with the need to protect sensitive information, thereby emphasizing the protective measures necessary over broad access rights. Safeguarding CJI data is fundamentally about security and ensuring that the information is only accessed by those who have the specific authority to do so.