Which statement about derivative classification is true?

Which statement about derivative classification is true?

• A. The classification of a new document must always be higher than the most restrictive source
• B. Unconfirmed sources are acceptable for derivative classification
• C. The 'Contained in' concept is used when a statement can be traced to a specific source
• D. SCG never affects the new document's classification

Answer: (C)

Derivative classification hinges on how information from classified sources is incorporated into new material. When a specific statement in the new document can be traced directly to a single source, that statement inherits the classification level of that source. This tracing and inheritance is what the “Contained in” concept describes: you identify the exact source, and the information in the new document reflects that source’s level. This keeps the protection accurate and ensures there’s a clear link back to the original material. If you use multiple sources, you don’t downgrade the classification; you apply the highest level among those sources to the combined information. You should rely only on confirmed, properly identified sources and their guidance. Relying on unconfirmed sources isn’t appropriate for derivative classification, because that could misstate the sensitivity of the material. Also, Source Classification Guidance can influence how a given piece of information is classified, so it’s not correct to assume it never affects the new document’s level.

Derivative classification hinges on how information from classified sources is incorporated into new material. When a specific statement in the new document can be traced directly to a single source, that statement inherits the classification level of that source. This tracing and inheritance is what the “Contained in” concept describes: you identify the exact source, and the information in the new document reflects that source’s level. This keeps the protection accurate and ensures there’s a clear link back to the original material.

If you use multiple sources, you don’t downgrade the classification; you apply the highest level among those sources to the combined information. You should rely only on confirmed, properly identified sources and their guidance. Relying on unconfirmed sources isn’t appropriate for derivative classification, because that could misstate the sensitivity of the material. Also, Source Classification Guidance can influence how a given piece of information is classified, so it’s not correct to assume it never affects the new document’s level.