In derivative classification, which practice is correct regarding determining the portion classifications?

In derivative classification, which practice is correct regarding determining the portion classifications?

• A. Consult source documents and classification guides to determine the classification level for each portion
• B. Mark all portions as the highest level
• C. Ignore the source documents
• D. Consult FOIA lists

Answer: (A)

Derivative classification means every piece of information drawn from classified sources must be assigned its own appropriate level based on those sources. The essential practice is to consult the original source documents and the classification guides to determine the classification level for each portion. These sources show exactly what level applies to the specific facts, ideas, or data you’re combining, and they provide the rules for marking and handling the resulting material. When a portion relies on multiple sources, you apply the most restrictive level warranted by those sources for that portion, following the guidance in the classification guides. This approach prevents both overclassification and underclassification and ensures consistent protection and possible declassification in the future. Marking every portion at the highest level ignores the actual sensitivity of the individual pieces and wastes security resources. Ignoring the source documents removes the basis for the decision and leads to incorrect markings. FOIA lists are not used to determine how to classify or mark material, since FOIA concerns disclosure rights, not safeguarding requirements.

Derivative classification means every piece of information drawn from classified sources must be assigned its own appropriate level based on those sources. The essential practice is to consult the original source documents and the classification guides to determine the classification level for each portion. These sources show exactly what level applies to the specific facts, ideas, or data you’re combining, and they provide the rules for marking and handling the resulting material. When a portion relies on multiple sources, you apply the most restrictive level warranted by those sources for that portion, following the guidance in the classification guides. This approach prevents both overclassification and underclassification and ensures consistent protection and possible declassification in the future.

Marking every portion at the highest level ignores the actual sensitivity of the individual pieces and wastes security resources. Ignoring the source documents removes the basis for the decision and leads to incorrect markings. FOIA lists are not used to determine how to classify or mark material, since FOIA concerns disclosure rights, not safeguarding requirements.