Individual items or facts that are unclassified may become classified when combined with other unclassified materials. This can happen through association or compilation.
Classification by association: When two or more unclassified facts are associated (same sentences, paragraph, chapter, document etc.), the potential for
classification by association exists. Remain cognizant of this risk and avoid becoming complacent when working with multiple pieces of unclassified information.
Classification by compilation: When multiple unclassified documents or facts are compiled (multiple years of data reports, reports from multiple project phases, etc.) the
potential for classification by compilation exists. Adversaries can select, arrange, and group information from multiple documents to form a more complete picture.
Derivative classifiers/reviewing officials (DC/ROs) are tasked with determining if materials contain classified information, verifying material classification levels when requested, reviewing documents before release, and ensuring documents they review are properly marked.
If you have items that need to be reviewed, visit the CICO website to access the eDC/RO system.
