What is required under DoD reporting requirements when classified information may be disclosed to unauthorized entities?

The correct course of action under DoD reporting requirements when classified information may be disclosed to unauthorized entities is to report the incident to the FBI or the appropriate Counterintelligence (CI) office. This step is crucial because it ensures that the proper authorities, who are trained to handle such sensitive breaches, can investigate the situation effectively and take required actions to mitigate any potential harm. The involvement of law enforcement or CI specialists is essential in securing national security interests and addressing the risks associated with unauthorized disclosures.

Reporting to the appropriate authorities allows for a coordinated response, which includes assessing the extent of the breach and implementing necessary preventative measures to safeguard sensitive information in the future. Engaging with federal agencies is foundational in addressing any potential legal implications and protecting classified data from further compromise.

In contrast, simply notifying the media, conducting an internal investigation only, or informing all employees about the potential breach does not fulfill the necessary legal obligations to address the situation responsibly and could lead to further dissemination of sensitive information or create unnecessary panic among employees without appropriate guidance.