FAS

Army Presents Standard Classification Methodology

11.06.06 | 1 min read | Text by Steven Aftergood

U.S. Army intelligence (G2) has developed a new methodology (pdf) for applying national security classification controls and for training personnel in the proper use of classification restrictions.

Failure to classify correctly has consequences, a tutorial on the new approach points out.

“Over-classification is costly, inefficient and can cause slow downs to development/operation. Under-classification can cause compromise, inadvertent disclosures and confusion.”

But getting it right is easier said than done, because it involves the conscious exercise of informed judgment.

“The descriptors used in addressing damage at the confidential (damage), secret (serious damage) or top secret (exceptionally grave damage) levels are subjective.”

The new Army methodology “provides a standardized method of making an objective decision about a subjective issue,” wrote Lt. Gen. John F. Kimmons, U.S. Army Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, in a cover memorandum.

See “Standardized Methodology for Making Classification Decisions,” Office of the Army Deputy Chief of Staff, G-2, October 25, 2006.

publications
See all publications
Emerging Technology
day one project
Policy Memo
Empowering Communities through Community Benefit Agreements in AI-Fueled Data Center Development

When properly structured — with specific numeric targets, secured financial obligations, independent monitoring, and meaningful enforcement — CBAs transform data center deals into durable community partnerships.

06.10.26 | 16 min read
read more
Emerging Technology
day one project
Policy Memo
Settlement Wins Against Big Tech Should Underwrite Digital Resilience Funds

Protecting the public from the tech industry’s predatory business models and the next wave of AI harms is an enormous challenge, but we have the evidence that trying to build a healthier digital culture is absolutely worth the effort.

06.10.26 | 12 min read
read more
Emerging Technology
day one project
Policy Memo
Prioritize Student Safety in K-12 Education By Establishing AI Procurement Guardrails

Opaque and insufficiently tested tools are increasingly shaping student outcomes without consistent transparency, civil rights review, or technical safeguards. States and the U.S. Department of Education can address these risks using procurement and oversight tools already within their authority.

06.10.26 | 20 min read
read more
Emerging Technology
day one project
Policy Memo
How to Safely Bring AI into Law Enforcement:  The Case of AI-Generated Police Reports

Commercial artificial intelligence tools have recently emerged that are able to produce police reports. If the resulting reports are inaccurate, incomplete or biased, or if the process leaks confidential information, this could undermine the criminal justice system and harm citizens.

06.09.26 | 20 min read
read more