If authorized sources lack sufficient guidance, what should you do?

When encountering a situation where authorized sources lack sufficient guidance, it is essential to ask your Security Manager or Facility Security Officer (FSO). These individuals possess the expertise and authority to provide direction on matters related to security and classification. They have a comprehensive understanding of the relevant policies, procedures, and risk management principles that govern derivative classification, and they are in a position to help clarify any ambiguities you may face.

Consulting your Security Manager or FSO ensures that you are adhering to established protocols and minimizing the risk of misclassification or unauthorized disclosure of information. Their guidance can also provide insights into the specifics of your organization's classification requirements and how to appropriately navigate challenging scenarios.

While consulting with a peer might provide some insights, peers may not have the necessary authority or detailed knowledge of classification standards. Conducting independent research could lead to obtaining inaccurate or outdated information that does not align with your organization’s requirements. Similarly, using personal judgment without proper guidance could result in unintentional errors in classification, which can have serious implications for security and compliance. Thus, seeking advice from trusted security officials is the most prudent course of action in such situations.