Where should classified information be stored?

Classified information must be stored in secure environments to ensure its confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The most appropriate storage method for classified information is in General Services Administration (GSA) approved safes or vaults. These safes are specifically designed to meet stringent security standards, ensuring that sensitive materials are protected against unauthorized access, theft, or loss.

Using GSA-approved safes or vaults provides an additional layer of security through features such as combination locks or electronic locking mechanisms that are tested for resilience against tampering. This level of security is necessary to protect classified data that could pose a risk to national security if disclosed.

While secure filing cabinets and locked desk drawers offer some security, they do not provide the same level of protection as GSA-approved safes or vaults. Individual employee safes might also be insufficient because they may not comply with the required security standards for storing classified information. Therefore, utilizing GSA-approved safes or vaults is the most effective method for safeguarding classified information.