What does the term "controlled unclassified information" (CUI) refer to?

The term "controlled unclassified information" (CUI) refers to information that requires safeguarding or dissemination controls but is not classified under the traditional classification system, which includes Confidential, Secret, or Top Secret levels. CUI is established to protect sensitive information that, while not classified, may still have implications for national security, law enforcement, or other areas where sharing should be limited to authorized individuals or groups.

CUI includes various types of information that, if disclosed inappropriately, could cause harm or affect governmental operations. This designation helps ensure that sensitive information is handled responsibly, without imposing the stricter regulations associated with classified information. Therefore, understanding the distinction between CUI and classified information is crucial for professionals who manage or handle such data.