The correct banner marking for UNCLASSIFIED documents with CUI is: a) “TOP SECRET.” b) “CONFIDENTIAL.” c) “UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY.” d) “SECRET//NOFORN.”
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct banner marking for UNCLASSIFIED documents with Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) is c) “UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY.”
Explanation
The marking of documents is crucial in managing sensitive information and ensuring proper handling. The term “Controlled Unclassified Information” refers to information that requires safeguarding or dissemination controls according to applicable laws, regulations, and government-wide policies but is not classified under Executive Order 13526 or the Atomic Energy Act.
In this context, “UNCLASSIFIED” indicates that the information is not classified at any level (Top Secret, Secret, or Confidential) but still requires certain handling procedures due to its sensitive nature. The additional designation “//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY” (FOUO) serves to inform recipients that, while the information is unclassified, it should not be released to the public and is intended for use only within the government or among authorized personnel. This helps protect the information from unauthorized access and maintains the integrity of operations and national security.
Other options provided are incorrect as they pertain to classified information. “TOP SECRET,” “CONFIDENTIAL,” and “SECRET//NOFORN” are classifications reserved for documents containing information that, if disclosed, could cause varying degrees of harm to national security. These classifications have specific protocols and handling requirements that are distinct from unclassified information.
In summary, proper marking of documents, especially those that contain CUI, is essential to inform users of the appropriate handling requirements and to protect sensitive information while adhering to government policies.