Under what condition should a document's classification level be upgraded?

The classification level of a document should be upgraded when additional sensitive information is added because the original classification may no longer accurately reflect the current sensitivity of the content. As more information is included that meets the criteria for higher classification—such as national security implications, protection of sensitive intelligence sources, or the potential risk to individuals if disclosed—the overall classification level must correspondingly reflect this increased sensitivity. This ensures that any risks associated with the newly added information are effectively managed and that the document receives the appropriate level of protection required by law and policy.

In contrast, the condition of being publicly released does not warrant an upgrade; instead, it typically leads to a downgrade or declassification. Referring a document to a different agency does not change its inherent information sensitivity and therefore does not necessitate an upgrade. Lastly, a document reaching a specific age does not automatically justify upgrading its classification level since age alone does not equate to an increase in sensitivity or risk.