Fact check: What questions are typically asked during an ICE polygraph exam?

1. Summary of the results

Based on the available analyses, specific questions asked during ICE polygraph exams are not publicly detailed in the sources examined. However, the analyses reveal that the Department of Homeland Security, under Secretary Kristi Noem, has implemented polygraph testing as part of an effort to identify employees who may be leaking information to media outlets and non-profits ^{[1] [2]}.

The analyses indicate that these polygraph tests focus on unauthorized communication with external parties, particularly regarding sensitive immigration operations and classified documents ^[3]. One specific question that has been confirmed is whether employees have engaged in unauthorized communication with media outlets and non-profits ^[1].

The testing process follows a standard three-part structure: pre-test, actual test, and post-test phases, typically involving around a dozen questions ^[4]. The tests are designed to measure physiological signs of deception when employees are questioned about potential information leaks ^[5].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original question lacks important context about the recent policy implementation under the current DHS leadership. The analyses reveal this is not a routine, long-standing practice but rather a specific response to perceived leaking issues within the department ^{[6] [5]}.

Alternative perspectives on this practice include:

• Law enforcement viewpoint: The tests are necessary tools to protect sensitive operations and national security information ^{[3] [7]}
• Employee rights concerns: The implementation represents increased surveillance of federal workers and potential intimidation tactics (implied in p2_s3)
• Effectiveness questions: The analyses reference broader debates about whether polygraph tests actually work as reliable detection tools ^[4]

The analyses also reveal that Secretary Kristi Noem plans to prosecute leakers identified through these tests, indicating this is part of a broader crackdown rather than routine screening ^[5].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question appears neutral and factual, seeking information about polygraph procedures. However, it lacks temporal context - the question implies this is a standard, ongoing practice when the analyses show it's a recent policy initiative under specific leadership ^{[1] [2]}.

The question also doesn't acknowledge the controversial nature of this practice. The analyses suggest this represents a significant policy shift rather than routine procedure, which could mislead readers into thinking polygraph testing has always been standard practice for ICE employees ^{[6] [5]}.

Additionally, the question doesn't address the limited public information available about specific questions, which the analyses consistently note as unavailable ^{[3] [6]}. This could create unrealistic expectations about the level of detail that can be provided in response.