Who holds responsibility for marking classified documents properly?

The responsibility for marking classified documents properly lies with the original classification authority (OCA). The OCA is an individual who has been granted the authority by the government to classify information and is responsible for determining whether information meets the criteria for classification. This authority ensures that documents are labeled accurately to reflect their classification status, which is crucial for protecting sensitive information and maintaining national security.

The OCA's role involves assessing the content of the document, understanding the implications of classification, and applying the appropriate markings to ensure that everyone who handles the document can recognize its level of sensitivity. By adhering to established guidelines and policy standards, the OCA plays a vital part in safeguarding classified information, thus ensuring it is protected against unauthorized disclosure.