Under what conditions can classified information be shared?

Information classified by government standards can only be shared under specific conditions that ensure the security and integrity of that information. The correct answer emphasizes that sharing classified information is permissible when it has been authorized by the relevant authority, and when the recipient possesses the necessary security clearance to access that information.

Having authorization ensures that the sharing of information aligns with established protocols and adheres to legal and security responsibilities. The requirement for the recipient to have appropriate clearance is crucial, as it guarantees that only those individuals who have been vetted and are trusted can access sensitive data. This process helps prevent unauthorized access which could compromise national security or sensitive operational activities.

In contrast, other choices do not adequately address the strict protocols that govern the sharing of classified information. For instance, sharing based on outdated information fails to recognize that the sensitive nature of classified materials is not solely determined by their timeliness, and sharing could still pose risks. Similarly, requiring both parties to sign an agreement might serve as a supplementary measure, but does not fulfill the fundamental requirements of authorization and clearance. Lastly, the notion of sharing information deemed as low risk does not align with the protocols for classified materials, as the classification status is established based on the potential impact of disclosure, rather than an arbitrary risk assessment.