What characterizes "Sensitive Compartmented Information" (SCI)?

Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) is characterized by the need for additional security measures due to its sensitivity. This classification is applied to information that, if disclosed without proper authorization, could result in serious damage to national security. The compartmented nature of this type of information means it is restricted to individuals who have been granted specific access based on their need to know within certain compartments or categories.

The requirement for additional security measures arises because SCI often pertains to intelligence sources and methods, which are critical for the safety and efficacy of national defense and intelligence operations. As such, maintaining control over this information is paramount, necessitating strict access controls, handling procedures, and safeguarding mechanisms.

This context clarifies why options describing SCI as publicly available information, exclusively confidential, or non-impactful on national security do not align with the characteristics of Sensitive Compartmented Information. In fact, those options misinterpret the core nature of SCI and its purpose in protecting sensitive national security information.