Which of the following limitations or challenges for classification is false?

The assertion that classification can prevent embarrassment to the government is misleading because the primary purpose of classification is to protect national security information rather than to shield government actions from public scrutiny or embarrassment. Classification systems are designed to limit access to information that, if disclosed, could damage national security or the interests of the state. While some may argue that keeping certain information classified could prevent embarrassment, this is not an inherent limitation or challenge of the classification system itself.

National security interests serve as the cornerstone for classification; information is classified based on its sensitivity and potential impact if disclosed, rather than to manage how government actions are perceived. The notion that classification cannot be used to hide inefficiencies directly aligns with the principle that classification should not serve as a cover for incompetence or poor decision-making. Furthermore, classification applies not only to estimates but also to a variety of information types that meet the criteria of national security. Therefore, the statement that classification can prevent embarrassment does not hold true within the context of the fundamental principles of the classification system.