Which term describes the process of using existing classified information to create a new document?

Which term describes the process of using existing classified information to create a new document?

• A. Declassification
• B. Derivative classification
• C. Re-labeling
• D. Compilation

Answer: (B)

Using existing classified information to create a new document is derivative classification. This means when you write a new report or document that incorporates material from one or more classified sources, you must assign an appropriate classification to the new document based on what those sources contain, and you must indicate the sources and basis for that classification. The new document inherits its sensitivity from the source material, so the classification level should reflect the highest level of information used. This differs from declassification (removing the classification from material), re-labeling (changing the label on existing material without creating a new document based on classified content), and compilation (simply gathering information, which may include classified material but doesn’t by itself establish the classification of a new document).

Using existing classified information to create a new document is derivative classification. This means when you write a new report or document that incorporates material from one or more classified sources, you must assign an appropriate classification to the new document based on what those sources contain, and you must indicate the sources and basis for that classification. The new document inherits its sensitivity from the source material, so the classification level should reflect the highest level of information used. This differs from declassification (removing the classification from material), re-labeling (changing the label on existing material without creating a new document based on classified content), and compilation (simply gathering information, which may include classified material but doesn’t by itself establish the classification of a new document).