What are the three levels of classified information?

The three levels of classified information as defined by U.S. government standards are Confidential, Secret, and Top Secret. Each level indicates the sensitivity of the information and the potential impact that unauthorized disclosure would have on national security.

Confidential information requires protection because its unauthorized disclosure could reasonably be expected to cause damage to national security. Secret classification is applied to information that could cause serious damage to national security if disclosed without authorization. Top Secret is the most sensitive level; unauthorized disclosure could cause exceptionally grave damage to national security.

Understanding these classifications is crucial for a Facility Security Officer (FSO) as it informs how they manage and protect sensitive information within their facility. This ensures that personnel handling classified information are aware of its significance and the necessary precautions required to secure it.

Other choices incorporate terms that either do not fit into the classification system or inaccurately categorize the levels of information. For instance, "Restricted" is not a recognized level of classification in the same framework as the correct levels, and "Declassified" refers to information that is no longer classified rather than a level of classified information.