What is a key factor in determining whether information should be classified?

The potential impact on national security is a critical factor in determining whether information should be classified. This assessment involves evaluating how the disclosure of the information could harm national security interests, such as military operations, diplomatic relations, or intelligence activities. If the release of the information is likely to pose a threat to the safety and security of the nation, it becomes essential to classify that information to protect those interests.

In contrast, factors like the age of the information, the source of the information, or public interest, while they may be relevant in certain contexts, do not directly address the primary concern of preventing harm to national security. Classification decisions are primarily guided by the need to safeguard sensitive information that, if disclosed, could negatively affect national security objectives.