Understanding What is Considered Controlled Unclassified Information
In today’s interconnected world, governments and companies alike have vast amounts of information at their disposal. Some of this information is classified and sensitive, while much of it is not classified but still valuable and sensitive. This is where the concept of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) comes in.
CUI is a category of information that is sensitive but not classified. It encompasses a broad range of information, including but not limited to data on critical infrastructure and transportation, law enforcement and intelligence activities, and export-controlled information.
What Qualifies as CUI?
For information to be classified as CUI, it must meet three criteria: it must (1) be unclassified, (2) be sensitive and (3) require protection or dissemination controls. This means that information that is unclassified but sensitive, such as financial information, medical records, and personal data, can be classified as CUI.
How is CUI Handled and Shared?
Since CUI is not classified, it can be shared with individuals or organizations that have a legitimate need to know the information. However, sharing CUI also comes with certain responsibility to protect the information. CUI should be marked appropriately to distinguish it from other information and ensure that it is not inappropriately shared or disseminated. It is also important to ensure that the recipient of the information has the necessary security clearance and is authorized to receive the information.
Regulations Around CUI
CUI is governed by a set of regulations and policies put forth by the US government aimed at protecting sensitive information from unauthorized disclosure or compromise. These regulations and policies include Executive Order 13556, Controlled Unclassified Information, and the National Archives and Records Administration’s CUI Registry.
In addition to the regulations, individual agencies and departments may also have additional policies and guidelines that address the handling and protection of CUI.
Conclusion
Understanding what is considered Controlled Unclassified Information is crucial for individuals and organizations that deal with sensitive information. It is important to identify and properly handle CUI to prevent any unauthorized disclosure or compromise of sensitive information. By following the regulations and policies put in place by the government, individuals and organizations can ensure that they are handling CUI in a responsible and secure manner.
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