After a classified document is leaked online, it makes national headlines. Which of the following statements is true of the leaked information that is now accessible by the public?
You should still treat it as chastified even though it has been compromised.
You may forward the URI to the information to interested parties.
You are authorized to respond to inquiries about its
You are authoined to download it to your computer:
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct statement is: “You should still treat it as classified even though it has been compromised.”
When a classified document is leaked online and becomes publicly accessible, it remains classified despite the unauthorized disclosure. This means that individuals with security clearances must continue to handle the information according to established protocols for classified material. The unauthorized release does not declassify the information; it retains its classified status until an official declassification process occurs.
Continuing to treat the information as classified serves several critical purposes:
- National Security Protection: Classified information is designated as such because its disclosure could harm national security. Even if the information is publicly available, discussing or disseminating it further can exacerbate potential damage.
- Legal Compliance: Individuals with security clearances are legally obligated to protect classified information. Engaging with leaked classified material without proper authorization can lead to legal consequences, including loss of clearance, employment termination, or prosecution.
- Operational Integrity: Treating leaked information as still classified helps maintain the integrity of ongoing operations and investigations. It prevents further unintended dissemination and potential compromise of related sensitive activities.
Therefore, you should not forward the URI to the information to interested parties, respond to inquiries about its contents, or download it to your computer. Engaging with the leaked material in these ways could violate security protocols and legal statutes. Instead, report the leak through appropriate channels within your organization, such as the security office or information security team, so they can take necessary actions to mitigate any potential damage.
In summary, despite its public availability due to an unauthorized leak, the information retains its classified status. You must continue to handle it in accordance with all applicable security policies and procedures to protect national security and comply with legal obligations.