The Swedish National Audit Office has reviewed the activities of the Security Service and points out several efficiency deficiencies, both within the agency and in the government's management. The review covers the Security Service's work with counter-espionage, counter-terrorism, constitutional protection, and security protection, writes the National Audit Office in a press release.

The National Audit Office's report highlights that the Security Service has a central role in protecting Sweden's democracy and security, especially against the backdrop of an elevated terror threat level and a deteriorating global situation. Despite this, there are clear areas for improvement.

– Among the state commitments, the Security Service's work to protect the democratic system, citizens' freedoms and rights, and national security holds a special position. It is absolutely central for our country that this work functions effectively, says Auditor General Claudia Gardberg Morner in the press release.

The report emphasizes the need for clearer internal governance and improved opportunities to use advanced tools such as artificial intelligence. Furthermore, it is suggested that the government should request more detailed information on the progress of the Security Service's work.

The Security Service is also recommended to strengthen its processes for overseeing security-sensitive activities, focusing on actual security measures such as physical protection, personnel security, and information security.

Project leader Per Dackenberg underscores the importance of a changed focus: – As it stands, the oversight mostly covers the prerequisites for achieving security, such as security protection analysis and security protection plans, and not actual security protection measures.

The National Audit Office notes that the deficiencies are possible to address and points out that some progress has already been made, for example, through more efficient registry checks.