Question 1

What is security classification guidance?

Accepted Answer

Security classification guidance is any instruction or source that sets out the classification of a system, plan, program, mission, or project. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 2, p. 3 — "Security classification guidance is any instruction or source that sets out the classification of a system, plan, program, mission, or project." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 2

Who initially issues security classification guidance?

Accepted Answer

Security classification guidance is initially issued by Original Classification Authorities (OCAs) to document and disseminate classification decisions under their jurisdiction. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 2, p. 3 — "It is initially issued by Original Classification Authorities, or OCAs, to document and disseminate classification decisions under their jurisdiction." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 3

What is the purpose of security classification guidance?

Accepted Answer

The purpose of security classification guidance is to communicate classification decisions and promote uniform derivative classification and consistent application of classification decisions to all users of the relevant information. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 2, p. 3 — "The purpose of security classification guidance is to communicate classification decisions, promote uniform derivative classification and consistent application of classification decisions to all users of the relevant information." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 4

Which policy document prescribes a uniform system for classifying, safeguarding, and declassifying national security information?

Accepted Answer

Executive Order 13526, Classified National Security Information, which is the foundation of national policy for classified information, prescribes a uniform system for classifying, safeguarding, and declassifying national security information. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 2, p. 3 — "The foundation of national policy for classified information is Executive Order 13526, Classified National Security Information. This Executive Order prescribes a uniform system for classifying, safeguarding, and declassifying national secu" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 5

Which policy document sets forth specific guidance to agencies on the implementation of Executive Order 13526?

Accepted Answer

ISOO 32 CFR Parts 2001 and 2003, Classified National Security Information; Final Rule, sets forth more specific guidance to agencies on the implementation of the Executive Order.

Question 6

Which DoD issuance establishes the general framework and responsibilities for DoD implementation of national policy on classified national security information?

Accepted Answer

DoD Instruction 5200.01, DoD Information Security Program and Protection of Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI), establishes the general framework and responsibilities for DoD implementation of national policy on classified national security information. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 2, p. 4 — "DoD Instruction 5200.01, DoD Information Security Program and Protection of Sensitive Compartmented Information, or SCI, establishes the general framework and responsibilities for DoD implementation of national policy on classified national" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 7

Which DoD manuals contain the requirements and minimum standards for developing classification guidance?

Accepted Answer

DoD Manual 5200.01, Volumes 1 through 3, DoD Information Security Program, contain the requirements and minimum standards for developing classification guidance. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 2, p. 4 — "It authorizes the publication of DoD Manual 5200.01, Volume 1 through 3, DoD Information Security Program, which prescribe the defined procedures for the DoD Information Security Program. These manuals contain the requirements and minimum s" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 8

Which DoD manual provides detailed information on how to develop security classification guides?

Accepted Answer

DoDM 5200.45, Instructions for Developing Security Classification Guides, provides detailed information on how to develop security classification guidance. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 2, p. 4 — "Another key DoD resource for developing security classification guidance is DoDM 5200.45, Instructions for Developing Security Classification Guides. This manual provides detailed information on how to develop security classification guidan" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 9

What are the two authorized methods used to communicate classification decisions?

Accepted Answer

The two authorized methods, in order of preference, are a Security Classification Guide (SCG) and a properly marked source document. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 2, p. 4 — "There are two authorized methods used to communicate classification decisions. They are, in order of preference, a Security Classification Guide, or SCG, and a properly marked source document." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 10

What is the preferred method for communicating an original classification decision?

Accepted Answer

The preferred method for communicating an original classification decision is a security classification guide (SCG). [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 2, p. 5 — "The preferred method for communicating an original classification decision is through a security classification guide, or SCG." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 11

What is a security classification guide (SCG)?

Accepted Answer

An SCG is a collection of precise decisions and comprehensive guidance regarding a specific system, plan, program, mission, or project. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 2, p. 5 — "An SCG is a collection of precise decisions and comprehensive guidance regarding a specific system, plan, program, mission, or project." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 12

What elements does an SCG allow the OCA to identify?

Accepted Answer

An SCG allows the OCA to identify the specific items or elements requiring classification, the exact classification levels assigned, the reason for classification, applicable downgrading and declassification instructions, any special handling caveats or dissemination controls, the identity and position of the classifier, and a point of contact for questions or suggestions regarding the SCG. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 2, p. 5 — "SCGs allow the OCA to identify specific items or elements requiring classification, the exact classification levels assigned, reason for classification, applicable downgrading and declassification instructions, any special handling caveats " https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 13

In what forms may a properly marked source document provide classification guidance?

Accepted Answer

A properly marked source document may provide guidance in forms including, but not limited to, a memorandum, plan, message document, letter, or order. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 2, p. 5 — "Using this method provides guidance in some form including, but not limited to, a memorandum, plan, message document, letter, or an order." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 14

What is a derivative classifier?

Accepted Answer

A derivative classifier is any cleared DoD and authorized contractor personnel who generates material from sources which are already classified. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 2, p. 4 — "A derivative classifier is any cleared DoD and authorized contractor personnel who generates material from sources which are already classified." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 15

May a contractor be granted original classification authority?

Accepted Answer

No. OCAs are senior government officials only, and contractors are prohibited from being an OCA. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 3, p. 8 — "Because their decisions have such an impact, OCAs are senior government officials only, contractors are prohibited from being an OCA." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 16

Is original classification authority tied to the individual or to the position?

Accepted Answer

Original classification authority is tied to a position and not the individual occupying the position; once an individual leaves a position designated as an OCA, that person no longer has original classification authority.

Question 17

Which DoD positions have original classification authority?

Accepted Answer

The Secretary of Defense, the Secretaries of the Military Departments (Army, Navy, and Air Force), and officials specifically delegated original classification authority in writing have original classification authority.

Question 18

What conditions apply to the delegation of original classification authority?

Accepted Answer

Delegations of original classification authority are limited to the minimum number required for effective operation of the DoD, must be made only to officials with a demonstrable and continuing need to exercise it, and delegated individuals must receive training as required by DoDM 5200.01, Volume 3. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 3, p. 9 — "Delegations of original classification authority are limited to the minimum number required for effective operation of the DoD; Delegations of original classification authority must be made only to officials with a demonstrable and continui" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 19

What three considerations does an OCA take into account early in the classification determination process?

Accepted Answer

Early in the classification determination process an OCA considers whether there is pre-existing security classification guidance, what the state-of-the-art of the information or item is, and whether classification will result in a net national advantage. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 3, p. 10 — "Early considerations in the classification determination process: Is there pre-existing security classification guidance? What is the state-of-the-art of the information or item? Will classification result in a net national advantage?" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 20

Where are many existing security classification guides available for research?

Accepted Answer

Many SCGs are available from an online accessible database maintained by the Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC), although some SCGs may be classified due to the sensitivity of the information. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 3, p. 10 — "Many Security Classification guides, or SCGs, are available from an online accessible database maintained by the Defense Technical Information Center, or DTIC. Some SCGs, however, due to the sensitivity of the information, may be classified" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 21

How many steps are in the original classification process?

Accepted Answer

The original classification process is organized into six distinct steps the OCA follows when making an original classification determination. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 3, p. 13 — "This process is organized into six distinct steps the OCA follows when making an original classification determination." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 22

Can information be classified if the U.S. Government has no ownership interest in or control of it?

Accepted Answer

No. The information must be owned by, produced by or for, or under the control of the U.S. Government; if the government does not have any ownership interest in or control of the information, it cannot be classified, regardless of how sensitive it might be.

Question 23

What are the eight categories of information eligible for classification under Executive Order 13526?

Accepted Answer

The eight categories are: military plans, weapons systems, or operations; foreign government information; intelligence activities (including covert action), intelligence sources or methods, or cryptology; foreign relations or foreign activities of the United States, including confidential sources; scientific, technological, or economic matters relating to national security; U.S. Government programs for safeguarding nuclear materials or facilities; vulnerabilities or capabilities of systems, installations, infrastructures, projects, plans, or protection services relating to national security; and the development, production, or use of weapons of mass destruction. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 3, p. 15 — "These are the eight categories of information eligible for classification: 1. Military plans, weapons systems, or operations 2. Foreign government information (FGI) 3. Intelligence activities (including covert action), intelligence sources " https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 24

For what purposes may information not be classified, continue to be maintained as classified, or fail to be declassified?

Accepted Answer

Information may not be classified, continue to be maintained as classified, or fail to be declassified in order to conceal violations of law, inefficiency, or administrative error; prevent embarrassment to a person, organization, or agency; restrain competition; or prevent or delay the release of information that does not require protection in the interest of national security. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 3, p. 15 — "Information may not be classified, continue to be maintained as classified, or fail to be declassified in order to: Conceal violations of law, inefficiency, or administrative error; Prevent embarrassment to a person, organization, or agency" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 25

What are the three classification levels used by the United States?

Accepted Answer

The United States uses three classification levels: Top Secret, Secret, and Confidential, each defined in relation to the potential for damage to the national security. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 3, p. 16 — "The United States uses three classification levels: Top Secret, Secret and Confidential. Each level is defined in relation to the potential for damage to the national security." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 26

What is Confidential information?

Accepted Answer

Confidential information is information or material of which unauthorized disclosure could reasonably be expected to cause damage to the national security that the Original Classification Authority is able to identify or describe. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 3, p. 16 — "Confidential information is information or material of which unauthorized disclosure could reasonably be expected to cause damage to the national security that the Original Classification Authority is able to identify or describe." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 27

What is Secret information?

Accepted Answer

Secret information is information or material of which unauthorized disclosure could reasonably be expected to cause serious damage to the national security that the Original Classification Authority is able to identify or describe. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 3, p. 16 — "Secret information is information or material of which unauthorized disclosure could reasonably be expected to cause serious damage to the national security that the Original Classification Authority is able to identify or describe." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 28

What is Top Secret information?

Accepted Answer

Top Secret information is information or material of which unauthorized disclosure could reasonably be expected to cause exceptionally grave damage to the national security that the Original Classification Authority is able to identify or describe. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 3, p. 16 — "Top Secret information is information or material of which unauthorized disclosure could reasonably be expected to cause exceptionally grave damage to the national security that the Original Classification Authority is able to identify or d" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 29

May information remain classified indefinitely?

Accepted Answer

No. An important fact to remember is that no information may remain classified indefinitely. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 3, p. 16 — "An important fact to remember is that no information may remain classified indefinitely." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 30

What is downgrading?

Accepted Answer

Downgrading is a determination that information classified at one level will have its classification reduced to a lower level on a specific date or event. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 3, p. 16 — "Downgrading rollover: A determination that information classified at one level will have its classification reduced to a lower level on a specific date or event" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 31

What should happen if classification guidance is issued outside of a security classification or declassification guide?

Accepted Answer

If classification guidance is issued outside of a security classification or declassification guide, it should be incorporated into a guide in a timely fashion. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 3, p. 17 — "If the classification guidance is issued outside of a security classification or declassification guide, it should be incorporated into a guide in a timely fashion." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 32

Why should security classification guidance include items that are unclassified?

Accepted Answer

Including unclassified items assures users that these items are indeed unclassified and were not inadvertently omitted from the guidance. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 3, p. 17 — "In addition, it is important for guidance to include items that are unclassified to assure users that these items are indeed unclassified and were not inadvertently omitted from the guidance." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 33

Should security classification guides themselves be classified or unclassified?

Accepted Answer

To maximize usability for the greatest number of individuals, SCGs should be unclassified; even so, they generally qualify as Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and must be protected as such, and for some programs they may need to be classified and safeguarded accordingly. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 19 — "To maximize usability for the greatest number of individuals, the guides should be unclassified. Even so, they generally qualify as Controlled Unclassified Information, or CUI, and must be protected as such. For some programs, however, they" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 34

Under 32 CFR Parts 2001 and 2003, what identifying information must a security classification guide contain?

Accepted Answer

An SCG must identify the subject matter, the OCA and the agency point of contact, and the date of approval or last review. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 19 — "This policy document includes specific requirements on the content of security classification guides. SCGs must identify the subject matter, the OCA and the agency point of contact, and the date of approval or last review." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 35

What is the heart of a security classification guide?

Accepted Answer

The heart of a classification guide is the identification and delineation of the specific items or elements of information warranting protection, the classification levels, the reasons for classification, and the duration of classification. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 19 — "The heart of a classification guide is the identification and delineation of the specific items or elements of information warranting protection, the classification levels, reasons for classification, and the duration of classification." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 36

What information should appear on the cover page of an SCG?

Accepted Answer

The cover page should include the name of the system, plan, program, mission, or project; the date; the office issuing the guide; the OCA approving the guide; a statement of supersession, if necessary; and a distribution statement. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 20 — "The SCG should include a cover page with the following information; the name of the system, plan, program, mission, or project; the date; the office issuing the guide; the OCA approving the guide; a statement of supersession, if necessary, " https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 37

What eight sections does DoDM 5200.45 recommend for a security classification guide?

Accepted Answer

DoDM 5200.45 recommends these sections: General Instructions, Overall Effort, Performance and Capabilities, Specifications, Critical Elements, Vulnerabilities and Weaknesses, Administrative Data, and Hardware, including only the sections actually needed based on the subject matter of the guide. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 20 — "This manual recommends that SCGs contain these sections. Guides should include only the sections actually needed based on the subject matter of the guide. Section 1: General Instructions; Section 2: Overall Effort; Section 3: Performance an" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 38

Which section is the key section of a security classification guide?

Accepted Answer

The Performance and Capabilities section (Section 3) is the key section of the classification guide; it breaks down what specifically is classified in terms of the item's performance and capabilities. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 24 — "The Performance and Capabilities section is the key section of the classification guide. The section takes the item that is classified and breaks down what specifically is classified in terms of the item's performance and capabilities." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 39

How must information be protected while a challenge to its classification is pending?

Accepted Answer

If any security classification guidance is challenged, the items of information involved shall continue to be protected at the level prescribed by the guide until a final decision is made on the challenge by appropriate authority. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 22 — "If at any time, any of the security classification guidance contained herein is challenged, the items of information involved shall continue to be protected at the level prescribed by this guide until such time as a final decision is made o" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 40

When is the Critical Elements section of an SCG used?

Accepted Answer

The Critical Elements section is used only when there are specific critical components that need to be called out separately because of their uniqueness and importance to the overall classified item. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 26 — "The Critical Elements section is used only when there are specific critical components that need to be called out separately because of their uniqueness and importance to the overall classified item." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 41

What is classified in the Vulnerabilities and Weaknesses section of an SCG?

Accepted Answer

The vulnerabilities and weaknesses are classified to protect against exploitation, and the countermeasures used to protect against exploitation are also classified. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 26 — "The vulnerabilities and weaknesses are classified to protect against exploitation. The countermeasures used to protect against exploitation are also classified." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 42

What four critical pieces of information does a distribution statement include?

Accepted Answer

A distribution statement includes the authorized audience, the reason for restriction, the identity of the Controlling DoD Office (CDO), and the date of publication. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 20 — "Distribution statements include four critical pieces of information: Authorized audience; Reason for restriction; Identity of the CDO; Date of publication" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 43

When may hardware items be classified?

Accepted Answer

Hardware items may be classified only if they reveal information or information can be obtained from them; an item of hardware does not necessarily need to be classified simply because it is part of a classified product or effort. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 29 — "Hardware items may be classified if they reveal information or information can be obtained from them. An item of hardware does not necessarily need to be classified simply because it is part of a classified product or effort." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 44

Can unclassified off-the-shelf items be classified?

Accepted Answer

Unclassified off-the-shelf (OTS) items, unless modified in some particular way to make them perform differently, can never be classified, even though they constitute a critical element, become an integral part of a classified end product, or produce a properly classified effect. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 30 — "Unclassified off-the-shelf (OTS) items, unless modified in some particular way to make them perform differently, can never be classified, even though they constitute a critical element, become an integral part of a classified end product, o" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 45

What form is completed to index a security classification guide in the DTIC online database?

Accepted Answer

Completed SCGs should be provided to the Administrator, DTIC, along with DD Form 2024, DoD Security Classification Guide Data Elements, to be indexed in an online accessible database maintained by DTIC. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 38 — "Completed security classification guides should be provided to Administrator, DTIC, along with DD Form 2024 to be indexed in an on-line accessible database maintained by DTIC (Refer to DoDM 5200.01, Volume 1, Enclosure 6 for more informatio" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 46

What must Original Classification Authorities do before a security classification guide is disseminated?

Accepted Answer

Before dissemination, Original Classification Authorities are required to approve guides in writing. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 38 — "Before dissemination, Original Classification Authorities are required to approve guides in writing." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 47

What is the DD Form 254 used for?

Accepted Answer

The DD Form 254 is an attachment to the government contractual package used to convey derivative classification guidance to DoD contractors; the preferred method is to issue unclassified DD Form 254s. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 40 — "The DD Form 254 is an attachment to the government contractual package and is used to convey derivative classification guidance to DoD contractors. The preferred method is to issue unclassified DD Form 254s." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 48

When is classified information declassified under Executive Order 13526?

Accepted Answer

In accordance with Executive Order 13526, classified information is declassified when the potential for damage from compromise is no longer a concern to the national security. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 5, p. 43 — "In accordance with Executive Order 13526, classified information is declassified when the potential for damage from compromise is no longer a concern to the national security." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 49

What are declassification guides?

Accepted Answer

Declassification guides are written instructions, similar to security classification guides, describing the elements of information regarding a specific subject that may be declassified and the elements that must remain classified. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 5, p. 43 — "Declassification guides are written instructions, similar to security classification guides, describing the elements of information regarding a specific subject that may be declassified and the elements that must remain classified." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 50

Who is responsible for developing original declassification guidance?

Accepted Answer

It is the original classification authority's (OCA's) responsibility to develop the original declassification guidance. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 5, p. 43 — "It is the original classification authority's, or OCA's, responsibility to develop the original declassification guidance." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 51

Who may declassify and downgrade information within the Department of Defense?

Accepted Answer

Within DoD, information may be declassified and downgraded by the Secretary of Defense, the Secretaries of the Military Departments, other officials who have been delegated OCAs, and other officials who have been delegated declassification authority, and the authority extends only to information for which the official has declassification jurisdiction or program or functional responsibility. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 5, p. 43 — "Within the Department of Defense, or DoD, information may be declassified and downgraded by the Secretary of Defense, the Secretaries of the Military Departments, other officials who have been delegated OCAs, and other officials who have be" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 52

What is the status of classified information that has been declassified without proper authority?

Accepted Answer

Classified information that has been declassified without proper authority remains classified, and administrative action shall be taken to restore markings and controls, as appropriate. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 5, p. 43 — "Classified information that has been declassified without proper authority remains classified. Administrative action shall be taken to restore markings and controls, as appropriate." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 53

What content must a security declassification guide contain?

Accepted Answer

A security declassification guide must identify the subject matter, the name and position of the OCA or Declassification Authority, and the date of issuance or last review, and it must precisely state the information to be declassified, downgraded, or to remain classified, identifying any information exempted from automatic declassification. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 5, p. 44 — "Security declassification guides must identify the subject matter, the name and position of the OCA or Declassification Authority and the date of issuance or last review. The declassification guide must precisely state the information to be" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 54

How often must declassification guides be reviewed and updated?

Accepted Answer

Declassification guides are reviewed and updated as circumstances require, but at least once every five years; some programs may require more frequent review and update. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 5, p. 44 — "Declassification guides are reviewed and updated as circumstances require, but at least once every five years. Some programs may require more frequent review and update." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 55

Can a security classification guide also be used as a declassification guide?

Accepted Answer

Yes. When it is sufficiently detailed and understandable, and identified for both purposes, a security classification guide may also be used as a declassification guide. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 5, p. 44 — "When it is sufficiently detailed and understandable, and identified for both purposes, a security classification guide may also be used as a declassification guide." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 56

Why is a properly marked source document issued?

Accepted Answer

A properly marked source document is issued to disseminate new or changed information quickly, pending a revision to a security classification guide, or when there is limited scope or applicability, and it is how derivative classifiers carry original classification forward. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 39 — "The shorter form of guidance provided in a properly marked source document may be issued to disseminate new or changed information quickly pending a revision to a security classification guide, or when there is limited scope or applicabilit" https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

Question 57

To which types of information should you apply special consideration when developing a security classification guide?

Accepted Answer

Special consideration applies to hardware items, military operations, intelligence, and foreign relations information, consulting DoDM 5200.45 to ensure the essential factors for each are considered. [Source: CDSE IF101.16 Security Classification Guidance Student Guide, Lesson 4, p. 29 — "When developing SCGs, there are specific types of information you must consider. This includes hardware items, military operations, intelligence, and foreign relations information. In these cases, it is important that you consult DoDM 5200." https://www.cdse.edu/Portals/124/Documents/student-guides/IF101-guide.pdf]

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