Dominate the 2026 Derivative Classification STEPP Challenge – Unlock Your Security Savvy!

In derivative classification, the basis is the information in the source documents that justifies the assigned level and handling. A derivative classifier must point to the exact content in those sources that requires protection and explain how that content maps to the chosen classification and dissemination controls for the derivative product. It isn’t about the author’s opinion, the length of the document, or how the file is formatted. Those attributes don’t determine protection needs. Instead, the justification comes from what the source content reveals and how official classification guidance applies to that content. For example, if a source discusses a sensitive capability that requires Top Secret handling, the basis would cite that content and explain why it necessitates that level and the corresponding controls in the derivative document.