The basis for handling and storage of classified data is the legal framework that governs its use. When storing classified data, one general principle always holds true: the more sensitive the material being stored, the stricter the storage and protection methods must be. The basis for handling and storage of classified data is based on three critical principles: confidentiality, integrity, and availability, often referred to as the CIA triad.
To store classified data appropriately, it must be stored in a secure room, a GSA-approved storage container such as a cabinet, safe, or vault, or a sensitive compartmented information facility (SCIF) . The specific storage requirements for each type of classified information are as follows:
- Confidential information: must be stored in a GSA-approved container or a secure room.
- Secret information: must be stored in a GSA-approved container or a secure room, or a SCIF.
- Top Secret information: must be stored in a GSA-approved container or a secure room, or a SCIF.
Classification markings and handling caveats are also important when handling and storing classified data.
