Security Fundamentals Professional Certification (SFPC) Practice Test

What is the purpose of classifying information within the Department of Defense?

1. To ensure data is accessible to all personnel

2. To protect sensitive information from unauthorized access

3. To facilitate the unauthorized sharing of information

4. To reduce the number of classified documents

The correct answer is: To protect sensitive information from unauthorized access

The purpose of classifying information within the Department of Defense is primarily focused on protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access. Classification establishes a system to determine who can access specific types of information based on the level of sensitivity and the potential impact that unauthorized disclosure could have on national security. The classification system helps ensure that only individuals with the necessary clearance and a legitimate need to know are granted access to national security information. This is critical because unauthorized access or disclosure of classified information can lead to risks, including jeopardizing missions, compromising operations, or endangering lives. In contrast, other options do not align with the fundamental principles of information classification. For instance, ensuring accessibility to all personnel does not take into account the need to protect sensitive information. Encouraging unauthorized sharing directly contradicts the objectives of classification. Additionally, while reducing the number of classified documents may be a logistical goal, it does not address the core purpose of protecting information. Thus, the focus remains on safeguarding sensitive data to maintain operational integrity and national security.