Security Awareness: Derivative Classification

Derivative Classification Overview

• Derivative Classification utilizes existing classified information to create new material.
• New material must reflect appropriate classification markings based on the source.

Responsibilities of Derivative Classifiers

• Must have original classification authority to perform derivative classification.
• Making recommendations for others to mark documents is not a responsibility of derivative classifiers.

Promotion of Information Sharing

• Automatic declassification of shared information does not promote information sharing.
• Effective sharing strategies include collaboration across federal, state, local, and tribal governments, as well as with coalition partners and the public.

Prohibited Reasons for Classification

• Information cannot be classified to conceal law violations, inefficiencies, errors, restrain competition, or prevent embarrassment.

Guidance and Reporting

• Inadequate guidance from authorized sources means seeking advice from security managers and Facility Security Officers (FSOs).
• The Security Classification Guide (SCG) provides specific information elements for classification.

Classification Concepts

• Classification by compilation occurs when unclassified information, when combined, results in a classified document.
• The concept of "revealed by" implies specific criteria under which classified information may be disclosed or reclassified.

Sanctions for Misconduct

• Leaking classified information to unauthorized users can lead to dishonorable discharge, incarceration, or loss of pay.
• Submitting a formal challenge regarding classified information does not incur sanctions.

Regulatory Framework

• Instruction 5200.01 outlines the regulatory requirements and guidance for derivative classification for Department of Defense (DoD) personnel.
• Initiating an informal challenge is the first step if classification appears improper.

Information Extraction

• Extracting involves using verbatim information from a classified source in a new document.
• Understanding administrative sanctions is essential for compliance.

Executive Order Compliance

• Classification must pertain to at least one of the eight categories outlined in Executive Order 13526, crucial for determining classification eligibility.