How often must a COMSEC Account review their holdings?

A COMSEC Account is required to review its holdings at least annually to ensure compliance with security regulations and to maintain the integrity of its cryptographic material. This annual review process serves several important functions: it helps identify any discrepancies or inconsistencies in the account's holdings, ensures that any expired or obsolete material is properly disposed of, and confirms that the account remains within the eligibility requirements for holding the sensitive data.

An annual review is crucial because it strikes a balance between thorough oversight and the practicality of maintaining operational efficiency. Conducting reviews less frequently, such as quarterly or biannually, may not sufficiently mitigate risks associated with the security and management of COMSEC materials. Additionally, more frequent monthly reviews may become burdensome and detract from focus on other essential security practices. This structured annual approach ensures a routine check that supports ongoing security compliance while also being manageable for personnel assigned to maintain the COMSEC account.