What actions constitute a possible SCI compromise?

• A. Only intentional leaks by insiders
• B. Only theft outside facility
• C. Unauthorized disclosure, loss, misplacement, or mishandling; access by unauthorized individuals; security policy violations
• D. Only if data deleted

Answer: (C)

Understanding SCI compromise means recognizing that any action that could expose or weaken SCI protections is a possible compromise. This includes not only deliberate wrongdoing but also accidental or negligent behavior. Unauthorized disclosure of classified information, loss or misplacement of classified material, or mishandling SCI items can all lead to exposure or erosion of safeguards. Allowing access to SCI by someone who isn’t authorized—even for a moment—also constitutes a compromise because the information could be viewed or mishandled by an unauthorized person. Security policy violations matter as well, since bypassing or neglecting established procedures undermines the controls that keep SCI secure. That breadth is why the comprehensive option is correct: it covers these varied scenarios. The other options are too narrow, focusing only on specific incidents like intentional leaks, theft, or data deletion, and miss the broader range of actions that can compromise SCI.