What should you do if you suspect unauthorized access to classified information?

When you suspect unauthorized access to classified information, the appropriate course of action is to report it to your security officer or designated authority immediately. This response is crucial because unauthorized access poses a significant risk to national security and can compromise sensitive information. Security professionals are trained to handle these situations and can take the necessary steps to investigate and mitigate any potential harm.

Reporting the suspicion promptly ensures that the issue is addressed in a formal manner, allowing for proper investigation procedures to be initiated. The designated authorities have the experience and resources needed to assess the situation effectively and make decisions about how to proceed.

In contrast, confronting the individual may create a tense situation and could unintentionally alert them to the suspicion, potentially leading to further risks. Ignoring the issue because of uncertainty can allow the situation to worsen and compromise security even more. Discussing the suspicion with colleagues might lead to spreading unverified information, which can create unnecessary panic or confusion and is not a substitute for official reporting channels. Thus, following established protocols is essential to maintaining the integrity of classified information.