Derivative Classification Training Practice Exam

What is NOT a requirement for information to remain classified?

1. It could harm national security

2. It must not be disclosed unauthorized

3. It could cause embarrassment to the U.S. Government

4. It should involve special access programs

The correct answer is: It could cause embarrassment to the U.S. Government

To remain classified, information needs to meet specific criteria as defined under classification policies. The correct choice indicates that the potential to cause embarrassment to the U.S. government is not a requirement for maintaining the classified status of information. Classification primarily focuses on national security implications. Information may be categorized as classified if disclosure could harm national security, as encapsulated in the first criterion. Additionally, the information must be safeguarded from unauthorized disclosure, which reinforces the need for controlled access. The fourth criterion pertains specifically to special access programs, which are an additional layer of classification for particularly sensitive information, thus making their inclusion relevant. However, the mere potential for embarrassment does not sufficiently justify the classification of information. While sensitive material may indeed lead to embarrassment if disclosed, that alone does not warrant classification under national security standards. The focus of classification is to protect against threats to national security rather than to shield the reputation of the government.