,
11 tweets,
2 min read
Read on Twitter
Listening to commentary about what goes onto servers that hold different levels of information. Will attempt to clarify with simplicity with a review of “classification for dummies (no insult intended). 1 of 11.
2. Unclassified servers (nipr net) holds unclassified email that is meant to communicate government business with those with a need to know. Also contributes to record keeping requirement.
3. Secret documents go on SIPR net (SIPR=Secret Internet Protocol Router) & is used in DOD, State & other agencies internal to government (only) & is a secure network to share classified info up to the “secret” level. Any breech might cause “significant damage” to the US.
4. Top Secret(TS) & Secret Compartmented Information (SCI) are a higher level & on a different & special network, requiring higher security access & clearances. This level has ⬆️protection, gives “vital” details & would likely result in extreme damage to security if breeched.
5. SCI is specifically “sensitive” due to how it is collected, analyzed, or connected to other intel. There are also Special Access programs (SAPs), usually known by a code word. Only those using or involved in the program has SAP access, and even the code word is classified.
6. Here are some details for those wanting to nerd out. fas.org/sgp/library/qu…
7. The NSC has an additional server, given the distinct requirement for intelligence to be provided and held for decision-makers. This isn’t described in the document, and I won’t attempt to address it in this thread.
8. A key issue, these levels are to protect information related to different aspects of US national security. There are also regulations saying documents can’t be classified or stored in these networks to protect personal or politically-specific issues.
9. Additionally, those who make decisions as to what can be stored on (or viewed from) these servers must have the appropriate clearance. Each level of clearance requires specific (and increasingly intense) vetting. Not just anyone can decide what goes on these servers.
10. This is a very simplified explanation, from an old soldier who used and was required to protect these documents and servers.
11. End of classification Tedtalk.
