Protective marking

Protective or security  marking is a simple classification scheme that allows information to be placed into one of two categories. 

Security marking classifications

These are the two classifications:

1. OFFICIAL:  is to be used for all routine business operations.  If the document isn't marked, it should be treated in the same way as an ​OFFICIAL marked document.
2. OFFICIAL-SENSITIVE: this should be used to indicate information which is highly sensitive or confidential in nature, for example, if the information is lost it would have a damaging effect on our reputation as a council, our financial status and our ability to provide the services we do.

The higher the classification level, the greater care needs to be taken when handling and transferring the information to protect it from disclosure. For example:

• being aware of who is within earshot of your phone conversation
• confirming email, address, phone and fax numbers are correct
• not leaving sensitive information unattended on desks

The classification communicates clearly and quickly the sensitivity of the information to those who come into contact with it.

How to apply the protective mark

• Email: The security marking classification should be at the beginning of the subject line.  When sending emails that contain OFFICIAL-SENSITIVE information the Government Connect Egress secure mail syste (Lighthouse) must be used.

• Microsoft Word: The security marking should be written centrally, it is also good practice to have a version number, page number and total number of pages within the footer.
• Hard copy: The security marking classification should be stamped on every page.

Training

The  Security Marking E-Learning Course has more detailed guidance on:

• levels of classification
• how to identify and apply protective marking
• handling protectively marked material
• sending protectively marked material
• how this will apply to you