Overview
Every classified document must include specific markings to identify its security level, control systems, and access requirements. These markings follow rigid formats established by presidential executive order.
Banner Line Format
All classified documents display a banner line following this hierarchy:
``
Classification // Control System // Dissemination Controls // Non-IC Info
Example: TOP SECRET // KDK // SAR-HOTGAS // ORCON / RSEN
| Component | Purpose |
|-----------|--------|
| Classification | Always written in full (e.g., "Top Secret") |
| Control System | SCI control system (S.I., T.K., KDK, HCS, RSV) or SAR for SAPs |
| Dissemination Controls | ORCON, NOFORN, REL TO, etc. |
| Non-IC Info | Foreign government markings, special access program identifiers |
Portion Markings
Each segment of a classified document carries its own portion marking in parentheses:
`
(U) — Unclassified information
(TS//KDK//SAR-HG) — Top Secret geospatial intelligence under SAR-HOTGAS control system
(S) — Secret level
(C) — Confidential level
Classification Block
Located on the bottom left of classified documents, containing:
- Classified By: Original classification authority (name/position or identifier)
- Reason for Classification: Cites presidential executive order section and category (e.g., "1.4(g)" for military plans/weapons systems)
- Declassify On: Date 25 years from creation, unless one of nine statutory exemptions applies
Derivatively classified documents note source rather than reason.
Color Coding
| Color | Classification Level |
|-------|---------------------|
| Yellow | Top Secret / SCI |
| Orange | Top Secret or Secret / SCI |
| Red | Secret |
| Blue | Confidential |
| Purple | Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) |
| Green | Unclassified |
Key Facts
- All classified documents must include complete markings—even emails, text messages, and handwritten notes
- The 25-year automatic declassification rule has nine statutory exemptions
- Banner line format uses approved acronyms called "control markings"
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legal-framework-analysis — Legal precedents from Harrington v. Iowa establishing admissibility requirements for Brain Fingerprinting evidence
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peripheral-nervous-system-neuromodulation — Therapeutic modulation of PNS through implantable neural dust sensors