Information Security Classification

A Information Security Classification is a categorization system that assigns security levels to information based on sensitivity and protection requirements.

• AKA: Data Classification System, Security Classification Scheme, Information Categorization System, Data Security Classification, Sensitivity Classification System.
• Context:
  • It can typically define Protection Requirements for each classification level.
  • It can typically guide Access Control Decisions and handling procedures.
  • It can typically support Regulatory Compliance and risk management.
  • It can often include Classification Markings and handling instructions.
  • It can often require Classification Authority for level assignment.
  • It can range from being a Simple Information Security Classification to being a Complex Information Security Classification, depending on its classification granularity.
  • It can range from being a Binary Information Security Classification to being a Multi-Level Information Security Classification, depending on its classification tier count.
  • It can range from being a Government Information Security Classification to being a Commercial Information Security Classification, depending on its organizational context.
  • It can range from being a Static Information Security Classification to being a Dynamic Information Security Classification, depending on its classification flexibility.
  • It can integrate with Identity Management Systems for access enforcement.
  • It can support Data Loss Prevention Systems through classification-based rules.
  • ...
• Examples:
  • Government Information Security Classifications, such as:
    • Classified Information System with Top Secret, Secret, and Confidential levels.
    • Controlled Unclassified Information System for sensitive but unclassified data.
    • Federal Contract Information Classification for contractor-held data.
  • Commercial Information Security Classifications, such as:
    • Corporate Classification System with Public, Internal, Confidential, and Restricted levels.
    • Healthcare Classification System for HIPAA-regulated data.
    • Financial Classification System for PCI DSS compliance.
  • ...
• Counter-Examples:
  • Quality Rating System, which assesses value rather than security requirements.
  • Priority Classification System, which determines urgency rather than sensitivity.
  • Functional Classification System, which categorizes by purpose rather than protection needs.
• See: Data Protection Framework, Access Control System, Government Information, Risk Assessment Framework, Compliance Management System, Security Policy Framework, Information Governance, Data Handling Procedure, Classification Marking System, Security Clearance System.

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