Can SCI be shared across compartments without authorization?

• A. Yes, with no restrictions.
• B. No; sharing requires explicit need-to-know and authorization for the specific compartment.
• C. Yes, if the recipient has any clearance.
• D. Only within the same compartment.

Answer: (B)

Sharing SCI across compartments requires explicit need-to-know and authorization for the specific compartment. This framework preserves strict boundaries between compartments: even with a suitable clearance, a person can’t access or share information unless there is a demonstrated need-to-know for the target compartment and an approved authorization to receive that compartment’s material. This prevents leakage between compartments and ensures only those with a justified reason are granted access.

The other options miss these safeguards. Sharing with no restrictions breaks compartmentalization; clearance alone isn’t enough because it doesn’t establish access to a particular compartment; and stating it’s only within the same compartment ignores the possibility of authorized cross-compartment sharing that is explicitly approved.