The SCI control system marking should not be listed in the banner line on a classified document.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not Applicable
• D. Not Sure

Answer: (B)

The banner line communicates both the classification level and any special access restrictions. When information is SCI, the banner should reflect that by including SCI in the designation (for example, SECRET//SCI). This instantly tells readers that the material includes data within a sensitive compartment and must be handled accordingly, only shared with those who have the necessary SCI access and clearance. If the SCI marking were not shown in the banner line, the document might be treated as a generic SECRET or even misclassified, increasing the risk of improper dissemination or handling and undermining compartmentalization. The interior markings alone do not replace the banner; the banner is the first and most visible signal of handling requirements. Therefore, listing the SCI control system marking in the banner line is required.