What does "CUI" stand for, and how does it relate to classified markings?

The term "CUI" stands for Controlled Unclassified Information. This designation is important within the context of information security because it refers to information that requires safeguarding or dissemination controls but is not classified under specific levels such as confidential, secret, or top secret.

CUI is part of a framework that aims to standardize how unclassified information is marked and handled across various agencies and organizations. The significance of this marking is to protect sensitive information that, while not classified, could still pose a risk to national security or privacy if improperly disclosed. This contrasts with the other options, which do not accurately represent the defined classification or characterization of such information.