CUI is a safeguarding system for UNCLASSIFIED information. CUI and Classified National Security Information (CNSI) have separate, co-equal Executive Orders and implementing directives. What is the difference between FOUO and CUI?

The CUI designation indicator block is required on all documents containing CUI. Place the block on the lower right side of the title or first page. The block consists of:

To determine if unclassified information in your document is CUI, check the information against the DoD CUI Registry. Does it potentially fit within a category of CUI? The CUI designation indicator block. Do not add “UNCLASSIFIED” before “CUI.” Do not add the CUI category to the top and bottom of the page.

All documents containing CUI must have a CUI Designation Indicator or DI Block to notify the recipient about information related to who originated the document, the category of the CUI, and any LDCs if applicable. If agencies use official letterhead, …

Check the unclassified information in your document against the CUI Registry.

Identify individual responsibilities for protecting CUI. Identify the organizational index groups with CUI categories routinely handled by DOD personnel. Describe the CUI Registry, including purpose, structure, and location. Describe the differences between CUI Basic and CUI Specified.

Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) is unclassified information that requires safeguarding or dissemination controls pursuant to and consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and government-wide policies.

DCSA Program Office tools and resources identified to assist with the development of a successful CUI program for DOD and Industry.

This 21-page training guide, published by OUSD(I&S)/DDI(CL&S) Information Security on 3 Sep 20, provides information on implementing the new Federal Marking Framework for Controlled Unclassified Informatoin (CUI).

The key to correctly identifying unclassified information as CUI is ensuring it aligns with a CUI category in the DoD CUI Registry. Is the information unclassified? Does the information fall within a law, regulation, or government -wide policy?