What does the term 'highest overall classification level' refer to within a document?

The term 'highest overall classification level' refers to the utmost classification indicated on a given page or document. In the context of classified information, this classification level signifies the most sensitive information contained within that document. It is crucial because it determines the protocols for handling, sharing, and storing the document, ensuring that individuals with the appropriate clearance can access it.

Classified documents may contain information at multiple classification levels, but it is the highest classification level that dictates the overall security requirements for the entire document. Therefore, when marking a document, it is important to indicate this highest level clearly to signal to all users the utmost sensitivity of the information contained within and to guide their handling of the document properly.