Community Chat

[Marp]

Have you ever filed a FOIA request for any files the NSA or FBI might have on you? If so, how long did it take to get a response?

Before the posts start about not having done anything to have a file all it takes is a Tweet that is considered politically subersive, attending a protest or signing a oppositional petition. Don't like a political figure and voice it loud and clear--there is a chance the FBI or NSA knows about it and you may be monitored. Like someone that speaks out against the government and follow them? You likely have a file.

It really doesn't take much to have a file so the only way to know for sure is to ask.

[missy1]

Wouldn't it put up a  red flag if you requested this? 

[Snowpuppy]

Oh, I do this all the time while waiting for my pedi to dry.

[sunshine45]

If the information you want is not publicly available, you can submit a FOIA request to the agency's FOIA Office. The request simply must be in writing and reasonably describe the records you seek. Most federal agencies now accept FOIA requests electronically, including by web form, e-mail or fax.

How to Make a FOIA Request - FOIA.gov

www.foia.gov/how-to.html

As of early 2016, the average processing time for a "simple" FOIA request is a little over one month, while more complex ones take over 80 days. You can check the status of your USCIS FOIA request online using the control number that was given to you when your request was received.

[sunshine45]

i might have a file, but i am not worried about what may or may not be in it. i do have dual citizenship (even though i was born in this country), so maybe that is a trigger?

when i travel i usually get those "we have randomly checked your bags" notices from the TSA. random usually means sometimes, not ALL THE TIME! it is amusing.

i have no doubt the government can get any information they want easily and quickly.....including what brand of bra i prefer. LOL

[Buck-i-Nana]

@sunshine45 - I'm surprised to see that month for a simple request.  There is an automatic clock that starts from the moment a FOIA request is received by any agency.  The standard clock for a simple request is supposed to be 10 days.

@Marp - you are aware that a FOIA request is not free right?  While not expensive, there are charges involved for the research time and any copying/printing etc.  You can put a "not to exceed $ amt" in your request.

I had to deal with a number of FOIAs submitted to the Air Force and we had to jump through major hoops and document everything.

[deepwaterdotter]

Having a permit to carry a concealed firearm probably warrants a file.  I can't think of anything else about me that would cause a 'red flag'.   

[Mj12]

Hi @Marp. Have I done this? No, I guess I haven't been curious enough. I suppose if someone wants to apply for a govt job, may be a good idea to ensure there isn't any incorrect info in there. 

[Marp]

@Buck-i-Nana,

Thanks for the information.  I am aware of possible charges but got conflicting information about time frames so I was hoping someone here could answer.

[Nancy Drew]

Sometimes it is best to just contact the government offices for accurate info. While nice to be helpful a shopping message board is not always the best way to go.