What does CUI stand for in the context of information classification?

CUI stands for Controlled Unclassified Information. This term is used to refer to a category of sensitive but unclassified information that requires safeguarding or dissemination controls consistent with applicable law, regulations, and government-wide policies. CUI serves to protect information that is not classified but still necessitates a level of control due to its sensitivity.

The classification of information as CUI helps organizations recognize which information requires protection from unauthorized access or disclosure. This ensures that while the information is not classified in the traditional sense, it is still handled with a degree of caution to maintain its integrity and prevent misuse. The establishment of the CUI framework streamlines the management of this type of information across federal agencies and contractors, promoting uniformity in its handling and ensuring that it is adequately safeguarded according to specific requirements.

The other options reflect incorrect definitions of information categories that do not align with established terminology or frameworks used for protecting sensitive information.