What should you do if you are uncertain about how to classify new content?

When faced with uncertainty regarding the classification of new content, seeking guidance from a classification authority is the most appropriate action. This is because classification authorities possess the necessary expertise and understanding of the current policies and procedures surrounding information classification. They can provide authoritative advice on how to classify content accurately, ensuring compliance with security protocols and minimizing risks related to the mishandling of sensitive information.

Consulting with peers may offer some perspectives, but their opinions may not be grounded in the formal classification guidelines needed for accurate and responsible classification. Referring to outdated classification systems can lead to significant errors, as those systems may no longer reflect current policies or regulations. Ignoring uncertainty and classifying as usual could result in serious implications, such as the unauthorized release of classified information or the misclassification of sensitive materials, which can compromise organizational security and integrity. Therefore, seeking guidance from a classification authority is the best practice to ensure accurate and secure classification.