All of the following are steps in derivative classification EXCEPT:
(Select the best answer)
Making the initial determination that information requires protection against unauthorized disclosure in the interest of national security.
Marking the information to show its classified status.
Determining whether information has been classified previously.
Carrying forward that determination into new material.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is “Determining whether information has been classified previously.”
Explanation:
Derivative classification refers to the process of classifying information based on previously classified information, which involves taking existing classified material and applying the appropriate classification markings to new documents or materials that contain similar information. It is a crucial aspect of ensuring that sensitive information is properly protected.
Let’s break down the steps involved in derivative classification:
- Making the initial determination that information requires protection against unauthorized disclosure in the interest of national security:
This is the first step in the derivative classification process. It involves assessing whether the information at hand meets the criteria for classification based on national security concerns. If it is determined that disclosing the information could harm national security, it will be classified. - Marking the information to show its classified status:
Once information has been classified, it must be clearly marked with the appropriate classification level (e.g., Confidential, Secret, Top Secret) and any handling instructions. This helps ensure that the material is handled properly and remains secure. - Carrying forward that determination into new material:
In derivative classification, information from previously classified materials is incorporated into new documents or materials. This step involves ensuring that the classification status is carried forward appropriately when new documents are created based on classified material. - Determining whether information has been classified previously:
This is not part of the derivative classification process. The classification decision has already been made on the original material, and the task at hand is to apply that classification to new documents or materials that contain similar information. Checking if something was classified previously is not a required part of derivative classification.
Derivative classification ensures that classified information continues to be protected when incorporated into new materials. It prevents the inadvertent release of sensitive data by establishing clear protocols for handling and marking classified information.