Understanding the Types of Controlled Unclassified Information
In today’s world, information is everything. It is what powers our businesses, drives innovation, and enables us to stay connected. However, not all information is created equal, and certain types of information require special handling and protection. This is where controlled unclassified information (CUI) comes in. In this article, we will explore the various types of CUI and how they differ from classified information.
Introduction
Before we dive into the different types of CUI, it’s essential to understand what CUI is and why it’s important. CUI is defined as information that requires safeguarding or dissemination controls based on law, regulation, or government-wide policy but is not classified under Executive Order 13526 or the Atomic Energy Act, as amended. The government recognizes that protecting CUI is crucial for national security, law enforcement, privacy, and other important interests.
Types of CUI
There are two main types of CUI: basic and specified. Basic CUI refers to information that requires safeguarding or dissemination controls but is not designated as specified CUI. Specified CUI, on the other hand, is a more specific type of CUI that is designated by an executive order, statute, or regulation. Examples of specified CUI include export-controlled information, sensitive but unclassified information, and critical infrastructure information.
Basic CUI
Basic CUI can be further broken down into three categories: controlled technical information (CTI), defense information, and privacy information. CTI encompasses technical data that is controlled by export control laws and regulations, including patents, blueprints, designs, and formulae. Defense information includes information that is critical to U.S. national security, foreign policy, or the defense of the United States. Examples of defense information include sensitive military plans, intelligence information, and information related to weapons of mass destruction. Privacy information includes personally identifiable information (PII), protected health information (PHI), and other personal information that must be safeguarded.
Specified CUI
Specified CUI covers a wide range of information types and is designated as such by executive order, statute, or regulation. One example of specified CUI is export-controlled information, which is information related to the export of goods and technology that is subject to export control laws and regulations. Another example is sensitive but unclassified information, which is information that requires safeguarding but is not classified. Examples of SBU information include law enforcement-sensitive information, proprietary business information, and scientific research data. Critical infrastructure information is another type of specified CUI, which refers to information related to the infrastructure that is vital to the nation’s security, economy, or public health and safety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the various types of controlled unclassified information is crucial for anyone who handles sensitive information. Basic CUI encompasses three categories: controlled technical information, defense information, and privacy information. Specified CUI, on the other hand, covers a wide range of information types that are designated as such by executive order, statute, or regulation. Examples of specified CUI include export-controlled information, sensitive but unclassified information, and critical infrastructure information. By properly identifying and safeguarding CUI, we can help protect our nation’s security, privacy, and other important interests.
