What is the purpose of the EO 13526 in the context of DoD Information Security?

The purpose of EO 13526, which is the Executive Order addressing classified national security information, fundamentally revolves around implementing policy for the designation and marking of classified information. This order establishes the framework for how information is classified and protected, specifically ensuring that sensitive information is properly identified so that it can be appropriately safeguarded from unauthorized disclosure.

By setting forth the requirements for how information is to be classified and marked, EO 13526 plays a critical role in maintaining national security and protecting sensitive government information. This includes specifying the criteria for classification and detailing how classified information should be marked, stored, and accessed, thus creating a standardized approach for handling sensitive information across government agencies, including the Department of Defense.

The other options involve different aspects of information security, such as audits, physical security, and penalties for non-compliance, but they do not capture the core focus of EO 13526 as effectively as the designation and marking of information.