How does the DoD categorize information regarding its impact on national security?

The categorization of information regarding its impact on national security by the Department of Defense is done using a tiered classification system consisting of three levels: Confidential, Secret, and Top Secret. This classification framework is designed to protect sensitive information based on the level of harm that unauthorized disclosure of the information could cause to national security.

Confidential information is the lowest classification, where unauthorized access could cause damage to national security. Secret classification signifies that its unauthorized disclosure could cause serious damage, while Top Secret is the highest level, indicating that such exposure could cause exceptionally grave damage to national security. This structured approach allows for effective information management, enabling the DoD to designate protection measures proportionate to the sensitivity and potential impact of the information involved.