What does the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM) require?

The National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM) is a crucial framework that establishes the requirements for protecting classified information in the context of industrial security. Specifically, NISPOM mandates that entities engaged in government contracting and handling classified material must implement measures to safeguard this information from unauthorized access or disclosure. This involves various security protocols, including physical security measures, personnel security clearance requirements, and cybersecurity practices, all aimed at ensuring that sensitive information is adequately defended against potential insider threats and outside exploitation.

While enhancing employee benefits, improving team collaboration, and increasing funding for cybersecurity training may be beneficial activities within an organization, they do not directly align with the core requirements set forth by NISPOM. The focus of NISPOM is explicitly on the protection of classified information, making the emphasis on that aspect paramount in the context of national security and compliance with federal regulations.