Document classification types are used to indicate the level of sensitivity and the degree of access control required for different types of information.
Here’s a breakdown of the differences among the classifications:
- Secret:
- Definition: This classification is used for information that, if disclosed without authorization, could cause serious damage to national security, an organization, or an individual.
- Access Control: Strictly limited to individuals who have a high level of clearance and a need-to-know basis.
- Examples: Military operations details, state secrets, highly sensitive corporate data.
- Confidential:
- Definition: This classification is for information that, if disclosed without authorization, could cause damage to national security, an organization, or an individual, but the damage would be less severe than that of secret information.
- Access Control: Limited to individuals who have been granted specific clearance or access rights and have a need to know.
- Examples: Certain government documents, sensitive business plans, personal identifiable information (PII).
- Internal Use:
- Definition: This classification is used for information that is intended to be used within the organization and should not be disclosed to the public. Disclosure might cause minor damage or have a negligible impact.
- Access Control: Access is typically restricted to employees or authorized personnel within the organization.
- Examples: Internal memos, internal procedural documents, internal emails.
- Public:
- Definition: This classification is for information that is intended for public dissemination. There are no restrictions on access, and disclosure poses no risk to national security, the organization, or individuals.
- Access Control: No restrictions; the information can be freely accessed and distributed by anyone.
- Examples: Press releases, marketing materials, public reports, product brochures.
Key Differences:
- Level of Sensitivity: Secret > Confidential > Internal Use > Public.
- Potential Impact of Unauthorized Disclosure: Severe (Secret), Moderate (Confidential), Minor (Internal Use), None (Public).