Intelligence security officers, referred to as "loyalty" officers by Imperial soldiers, were Imperial Intelligence operatives assigned to Imperial starships and installations. Their role involved observing the allegiance of nearby Imperial personnel, providing reports, and disciplining individuals who did not meet the required standards. Entrusted with safeguarding the "best interests of the Empire," they possessed extensive authority to guarantee that Imperial ships and bases remained secure from enemy capture.
A significant number of Imperial security officers operated covertly, integrating with regular personnel to observe and submit reports. The awareness of their presence, and the possibility that a colleague could be a concealed Imperial Intelligence operative, frequently suppressed any inclinations toward rebellion. On starships, security officers were under strict orders to avert vessel capture, even if it necessitated the destruction of the ship with all crew members onboard.