New Government Security Classifications

 

On the 2nd of April 2014, a new classification system, the Government Security Classifications Policy (GSC), replaces the old Government Protective Marking Scheme (GPMS).

Please be aware that all individuals (whether Government employees or suppliers) will soon be personally responsible and accountable for assets in their care. Everyone who works with government has a duty to respect the confidentiality and Integrity of any HMG information and data that they access.

The new policy sets out the requirement for reducing from six classifications under the existing GPMS to three classifications under GSC –

OFFICIAL – for the majority of routine government information where compromise would have a limited impact (and where controls using ‘commercial good practice’ are required).

SECRET – for very sensitive information that could seriously damage the military, international relations or the fight against serious organised crime (and therefore needs protection against highly capable threats).

TOP SECRET – the Government’s most sensitive information where its compromise could lead to wide spread loss of life and threatens national and international security (and as a consequence needs the highest level of protection).

Further information is available on the GOV.UK website.

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