What is the primary purpose of marking classified information?

The primary purpose of marking classified information is to indicate the level of classification and provide handling instructions. This is essential because it helps individuals recognize the sensitivity of the information and understand how it should be treated to protect national security. Proper marking ensures that everyone who comes into contact with the information knows whether it is confidential, secret, or top secret, as well as any specific requirements for handling, dissemination, and storage. By clearly indicating these aspects, marking helps to maintain compliance with security laws and regulations, thereby safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorized access or exposure. Understanding the classification level also aids in ensuring that only authorized personnel are privy to specific information, which is crucial for operational integrity and national security.