# DCSA Clarifies Polygraph AI Scope

The Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) says its active Modernizing Polygraph research phase excludes generative AI, large language models, facial-expression analysis, and vocal analysis. However, FY2027 budget materials describe a broader $31 million Polygraph+/Polygraph Next effort that includes AI scoring algorithms and decision aids, leaving unclear whether other AI-based deception-analysis methods remain in scope. No solicitation, award, or procurement contact is identified, so the signals point to requirements and oversight uncertainty rather than a current bid opportunity.

- The differing descriptions may affect future requirements for security-assessment technology; contractors should distinguish the current research scope from the broader budgeted effort when assessing market fit.
- The stated concerns include validation, bias, human oversight, and due process. Companies developing relevant capabilities should be prepared to address these issues in technical and assurance materials.
- DCSA budget and acquisition updates are the source-identified way to clarify scope and potential procurement activity; no specific deadline is provided.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military, Information Technology
**Topics:** Artificial Intelligence
**Published:** October 05, 2026

### Government Entities
- Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA)
- U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)

### Key Quotes
> Anytime that someone is in an interview setting where they might be accused of something, a large language model is assuming dishonesty.
> — David Markowitz, professor, Michigan State University

> The system could be making determinations that a person is lying or trying to deceive me that are outside of the tool’s specifications.
> — Ryan Carrier, founder, ForHumanity

### Sources
- [Has the Pentagon given up on AI polygraph analysis of trustworthiness?](https://www.defensenews.com/news/pentagon-congress/2026/10/05/has-the-pentagon-given-up-on-ai-polygraph-analysis-of-trustworthiness) - Defense News
- [Has the Pentagon given up on AI polygraph analysis of trustworthiness?](https://www.federaltimes.com/defense/2026/10/05/has-the-pentagon-given-up-on-ai-polygraph-analysis-of-trustworthiness) - Federal Times