What should a person do if they discover they have received classified information by mistake?

If a person discovers they have received classified information by mistake, the appropriate response is to immediately report the incident to the appropriate security office. This action is crucial because improper handling of classified information can lead to significant security risks, including unauthorized disclosure that could jeopardize national security or the safety of individuals.

Reporting the incident ensures that trained professionals can assess the situation, provide guidance on how to properly handle the mistakenly received information, and take necessary steps to mitigate any potential risks. This protocol is part of a responsible security culture and helps maintain the integrity of classified materials.

Other options, like deleting the information or sharing it with a coworker, do not address the security implications and might actually lead to further complications or violations of security protocols. Keeping the information to oneself until better understood could also result in a lack of timely action, which could exacerbate the situation.