What is a sensitive compartmented information facility (SCIF) room
A sensitive compartmented information facility or SCIF is a room or building specially built with highly technical countermeasures designed to prevent eavesdropping and are built to specific acoustic specifications, typically being designed without windows and having a litany of other measures built into access and electronics.
They can also be shielded with a metallic radiant barrier to prevent radio frequencies from radiating from within.
SCIF requirements
The requirements for SCIF facilities change depending on the end user however most require acoustic soundproofing to prevent the conversation from being overheard outside of the room, this can also be achieved with the use of white noise being played to mask conversations.
To protect from an electronic perspective all SCIFs have metallic barriers similar to that of a faraday cage. The purpose of this is to block all RF signals and RF emissions. Because of this, they are often accompanied by power filters if getting data or power into the room is necessary.
Can a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) have windows?
In general, SCIFs are designed to be secure environments that are isolated from the rest of the facility or building in which they are located. They are usually constructed with reinforced walls, floors, and ceilings to protect against unauthorized access and eavesdropping. As a result, SCIFs often do not have windows, as windows can provide a potential avenue for compromise of the secure environment.
However, it is possible for a SCIF to have windows, provided that they are designed and installed in a way that does not compromise the security of the facility. For example, the windows may be made of a material that is difficult to see through, or they may be coated with a film that blocks electronic signals. In some cases, the windows may be placed in locations that are not visible from the outside, or they may be installed in such a way that they cannot be easily opened or breached.
Ultimately, the decision to include windows in a SCIF will depend on the specific security needs and requirements of the facility. It is important to carefully consider all potential vulnerabilities and to take appropriate measures to protect the security of the SCIF and the sensitive information it contains.
What is Tempest?
Telecommunications Electronics Material Protected from Emanating Spurious Transmissions (TEMPEST) is a set of standards set by the U.S. National security agency and NATO certification.
It refers to a specific set of standards detailing spying on information systems from leaking emanations, including unintentional radio or electrical signals, sound, and vibrations. Within a secure compartmented information facility this typically is referring to Tempest power filters NATO SDIP-27 Level A (formerly AMSG 720B)
What are HEMP Filters?
High Altitude Electromagnetic Pulse (HEMP) filters are specifically designed filters that would protect electronic devices within a facility from any EMI or destructive overvoltages that could come from poor power sources, utility company fault, wiring erors or an EMP.
How can MDL help you meet your SCIF requirements?
MDL is the UK distributor for ETS-Lindgren the global leader in EMC, Acoustic, and Test & Measurement sectors.
MDL has the ability to design bespoke SCIF rooms that fit your specifications, our in-house team works alongside ETS Lindgren to provide some of the most demanding industrial, medical, and government shielding challenges.
Deployable RF Shielded / HEMP / Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) Containers
MDL Technologies has the capability and experience to provide bespoke deployable RF Shielded Containers to meet the demanding requirements imposed on critical systems and infrastructure
TIPS Security Container
For high threat, classified applications, the Security Container integrates physical and Tempest security to maintain configuration flexibility regardless of changes in hardware, technology, or the
Series 101 Shielded Rooms
The Series 101 RF shielded construction system meets and substantially exceeds all RF shielding requirements. The system consists of modular, hot galvanized rigid steel structural
