What marking (banner and footer) acronym (at a minimum) is required on a unclassified DOD document containing controlled unclassified information?
(Select the best answer)
A. IAW
B. CUI
C. UNCLASSIFIED
D. FOUO
The correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is B. CUI (Controlled Unclassified Information).
Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) is a category of sensitive but unclassified information that requires safeguarding or dissemination controls according to laws, regulations, and government-wide policies. The Department of Defense (DoD), like other federal agencies, uses CUI markings to ensure that this information is handled appropriately.
Explanation:
CUI Marking Requirements:
When a DoD document contains Controlled Unclassified Information, it must be clearly marked with “CUI” at a minimum. This marking should be placed in the banner (top of the document) and footer (bottom of the document) of each page, signaling that the document contains sensitive information that is not classified but still requires protection.
Why “CUI” and Not “FOUO”?:
“FOUO” (For Official Use Only) was previously used as a designation for sensitive unclassified information but has been replaced by “CUI” under the CUI program established by Executive Order 13556 in 2010. The CUI program was created to standardize the way federal agencies, including the DoD, handle sensitive unclassified information. While “FOUO” was primarily used in the past, it no longer applies under the new system, and “CUI” is now the appropriate designation.
Difference Between “Unclassified” and “CUI”:
- Unclassified: Refers to information that does not require any protection and can be freely shared with the public.
- CUI: Although unclassified, this information is sensitive and subject to specific safeguarding and dissemination controls.
IAW (In Accordance With) is not a marking; it is a term used to indicate compliance with laws, policies, or procedures.
Thus, the DoD requires documents containing CUI to have “CUI” markings in both the banner and footer to ensure that the information is adequately protected from unauthorized access or distribution.