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Mission Debrief: Sensitive Compartmented Information

SCI

Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) is a program that segregates various types of classified information into distinct compartments for added protection and dissemination or distribution control. SCI introduces an overlay of security to Top Secret, Secret, and Confidential information. To be granted access to SCI material, one must first have TOP SECRET clearance and be indoctrinated into the SCI program. There are explicit indoctrinations for each compartment under the SCI program umbrella. The Director of National Intelligence has overarching authority concerning SCI policy.

SCI markings, or caveats, identify the specific compartment or compartments with which the material is affiliated. These caveats define the separation of SCI classified material from collateral classified material.

Information that requires a formal need-to-know determination, also known as a special access authorization, exists within Sensitive Compartmented Information.

Compromised SCI

A compromise occurs when a person who does not have the required clearance or access caveats comes into possession of SCI in any manner (i.e., physically, verbally, electronically, etc.).

You are required to contact your security Point of Contact (POC) to report the incident. Do not elaborate detailed information (that may be considered sensitive/classified) concerning the people, processes, technology, file location, specific system information, or URL that may be related to the nature of the incident until secure two-way communications (verbal or transmitted) may be achieved.

Marking SCI

When handling SCI:

  • Mark classified information appropriately
    • Use proper markings, including paragraph portion markings
    • Use Security Classification Guides
    • Use Classification Management Tool (CMT) (ICS 500-8) for email and electronic documents
  • Attach appropriate cover sheets
  • Take precautions when transporting classified information through unclassified areas
  • Complete annually required classification training

A Security Classification Guide:

  • Provides precise, comprehensive guidance regarding specific program, system, operation, or weapon system elements of information to be classified, including:
    • Classification levels
    • Reasons for classification
    • Duration of classification
  • Is approved and signed by the cognizant Original Classification Authority (OCA)
  • Is an authoritative source for derivative classification
  • Ensures consistent application of classification to the same information

Transmitting SCI

Use proper protections for transmitting and transporting SCI, such as proper wrapping and courier requirements. Dissemination of information regarding intelligence sources, methods, or activities shall be consistent with directives issued by the Director of National Intelligence

Printing:

  • Retrieve classified documents promptly from printers
  • Use appropriate classification cover sheets
  • Ensure classified material is not mixed in with unclassified material being removed from SCIF
  • Cover or place classified documents in a container even in an open storage environment

Fax:

  • Mark SCI documents appropriately
  • Send SCI information using an approved SCI fax machine
  • Follow SCI handling and storage policies and procedures
  • Immediately report security incidents to your Security POC

Courier:

  • Authorization to escort, courier, or hand-carry SCI shall be in accordance with appropriate organization policy (agency-specific resources external to the course)
  • Follow SCI transporting badge requirements and procedures
  • Only transport SCI information if you have been courier-briefed for SCI
  • Refer to agency-specific policies and requirements prior to transporting SCI information
  • Contact your Special Security Office (SSO) or Security POC for questions/clarification
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