Which of the following is a step you should NOT take to protect against spillage?

Which of the following is a step you should NOT take to protect against spillage?

A. Label all files with appropriate classification markings

B. Follow procedures for transferring data to non-Government networks

C. Verify that you are using the correct network for the level of data

D. Purge any device’s memory before connecting it to a classified network

Answer: D. Purge any device’s memory before connecting it to a classified network

This option describes a measure that you should not adopt to prevent spillage, especially in the context of classified information. Contrary to the belief that may arise from this reasoning that clearing one’s device before connecting it to a classified network reduces chances of spillage it may do the opposite.

In the information security field, and particularly when handling classified data, the term spillage refers to the process of transferring data to a non-secure system or a system with lower security clearance. The main purpose is to maintain the secrecy of classified information within their relevant security compartments. The act of wiping a device before it is connected to a classified network does not have this purpose and may indeed bring new danger.

Rather, those items that are to exist in classified networks should be those that are made clearly for that purpose and should not be shuffling between classified and non-classified uses. It should never be allowed to be connected to an unclassified network or used for an unclassified job. Erasing the memory of the device used on the unclassified network before connecting it to the classified network might not fully off-load the unclassified information and therefore pose a threat of infecting the classified network with unclassified materials.

All the other options given are pertinent measures to thwart spillage; Proper identification with the right classification markings (A) (B) helps in easy identification of the sensitive files. Thus, the execution of procedures for transferring data to non-government networks (B) also assists with adherence to security protocols. The provision of a check on the use of the right network for the level of data (C) helps in avoiding leakage of sensitive information on lower networks. These steps are indeed the opposite of clearing a device’s memory as they are proactive measures working towards protecting classified information from spillage.