Legal Definitions - lie detector

A "lie detector" is the common term for a polygraph, a device and procedure designed to measure and record several physiological indicators such as blood pressure, pulse, respiration, and skin conductivity while a person is asked a series of questions. The underlying theory is that deceptive answers will produce specific physiological responses that can be distinguished from truthful ones. However, the scientific validity and reliability of polygraph results are widely debated, and they are generally not admissible as evidence in U.S. courts.

• Example 1: Pre-employment Screening for Sensitive Positions

  A federal agency hiring for a position requiring top-secret security clearance might ask applicants to undergo a polygraph examination as part of an extensive background check. The purpose is to assess their honesty regarding past activities, associations, or undisclosed information that could pose a security risk.

  This example illustrates the "lie detector" being used as a screening tool to gauge an individual's truthfulness about sensitive personal history, even though the results would not be used as evidence in a court of law.

• Example 2: Internal Corporate Investigation

  After a significant theft of proprietary data from a private technology company, several employees who had access to the information are identified as potential suspects. To narrow down the investigation and encourage confessions, the company might offer employees the option to take a polygraph test.

  Here, the "lie detector" is employed in an internal, non-judicial setting to help a private entity investigate a breach and assess the credibility of individuals involved, potentially influencing internal disciplinary actions.

• Example 3: Security Vetting for High-Risk Access

  A private security firm is vetting contractors who will have access to highly restricted areas of a client's facility, such as a nuclear power plant or a classified research laboratory. Beyond standard background checks, the firm might require contractors to undergo a polygraph examination to verify their honesty about any criminal history, drug use, or affiliations that could compromise security.

  This demonstrates the "lie detector" being utilized by a private entity for enhanced security screening, aiming to identify potential risks by assessing the truthfulness of individuals seeking access to sensitive environments.