Frequently Asked Questions

This page answers some of the most common questions that the Security Service is asked.

If your question relates to working for the Service, please refer to the FAQs on the MI5 recruitment website.

The Myths and Misunderstandings page counters some of the most popular misconceptions about the Security Service.

About the work of the Service

  1. What is the difference between MI5 and MI6?
  2. Is MI5 a government department?
  3. What is MI5's annual budget?
  4. Do you produce an annual report?
  5. How can I find out if you have a file on me?
  6. I think MI5 is spying on me. How do I complain?
  7. Why do you refuse to reveal anything from your files?
  8. A relative of mine used to work for MI5. Can you provide details about their former work?
  9. How realistic is the depiction of MI5 in the television series "Spooks"?
  10. How can I become an MI5 agent?

About the history of the Service

  1. Where does "MI5" come from and why is the Security Service still known by this name?
  2. What happened to MI1 - MI4?
  3. Why was the head of MI5 known as "K"?
  4. What does the MI5 crest represent?

About the threats to national security

  1. Why doesn't the UK operate a public threat alert system like the US?
  2. What can I do to prepare and protect my family against terrorism?
  3. Could MI5 assess the threats specifically affecting my business and do a security audit for us?

About this website

  1. Why does MI5 have a website? Why aren't all details about its work kept secret?
  2. Can I link to the MI5 website from my website?
  3. What information is published on the Arabic and Urdu versions of your website?

Other FAQs

  1. Can members of the public visit MI5's headquarters?
  2. Would the Director General of MI5 speak at my conference/event?
  3. How can I contact MI6 or apply for a job there?