What does the term "classified information" refer to?

The term "classified information" refers specifically to information that has been designated as requiring protection against unauthorized disclosure. This classification process is essential for safeguarding national security interests and is governed by laws and regulations set by the government. Classified information is categorized into different levels, such as Confidential, Secret, and Top Secret, based on the potential damage that unauthorized disclosure could cause to national security.

This distinction is crucial because it underscores the necessity of controlling access to sensitive information, ensuring that only individuals with the appropriate security clearances can view or handle it. The classification system also establishes guidelines and protocols for the handling, storage, and transmission of sensitive information, emphasizing the importance of protecting such data from unauthorized access and leaks.

In contrast, information shared between federal agencies, public information available to all citizens, and information needed for internal communications do not fall under the category of classified information, as they lack the protective designation required for national security purposes.