SWFT stands for Secure Web Fingerprint Transmission. It is a secure, web-enabled enterprise system run by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA).
Its primary purpose is to collect, handle, and clear electronic fingerprints (eFPs) and demographic data for personnel background checks and security clearances.
Who Uses SWFT?
SWFT is mandated and utilized across sectors that interact with federal security infrastructure:
Cleared Defense Contractors (Industry): Private companies performing work for the government that requires their employees to hold personnel security clearances.
DoD Components: All branches of the military and civilian defense sectors.
U.S. Federal Agencies: Other government bodies requiring personnel vetting or specialized investigative services.
How It Works
Instead of mailing traditional ink-and-paper fingerprint cards (FD-258 cards), users capture biometrics digitally.
Capture: Fingerprints are taken via an FBI-certified livescan device (such as those integrated by MOSA Technology Solutions).
File Creation: The software creates an Electronic Fingerprint Transaction (EFT) file containing biometric data (10 rolled prints and 4 flat slaps) combined with the applicant's biographical PII.
Upload: A Facility Security Officer (FSO) or authorized user securely uploads the EFT file directly into the SWFT web portal.
Routing: SWFT acts as a secure gateway, automatically sending those files to the DCSA’s Fingerprint Transaction System (FTS), which handles background vetting.
Key Benefits of SWFT
Speed: Drastically accelerates the background check timeline compared to standard mail.
Accuracy: Real-time scoring on digital scanners reduces "unclassifiable" or smudge-rejected fingerprint submissions.
Security: Eliminates physical paper trails of sensitive Personally Identifiable Information (PII) by enforcing strict federal encryption and digital transmission standards.
Organizations that do not own livescan hardware can alternatively utilize third-party FBI Channelers or service providers to digitize physical cards into SWFT-compliant files.
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