Under what circumstance can classified information be disclosed?

Classified information is protected under strict regulations that dictate who can access it to ensure national security and protect sensitive data. This information can only be disclosed to individuals who possess the appropriate security clearance, which verifies that they have been vetted and authorized to access specific levels of classified material. This requirement is crucial because it maintains the integrity and security of the information and ensures that only those with a legitimate need-to-know can access sensitive intelligence.

The concept of security clearance encompasses various levels, such as confidential, secret, and top secret, each requiring different levels of trust and clearance. When individuals have the appropriate security clearance, it means they have undergone background checks and received the necessary training to handle classified information responsibly. Thus, disclosing classified information to those with the appropriate clearance is both a legal requirement and a crucial practice for safeguarding national security.