Which of the following is NOT a level of classified information?

The classification levels of information are designed to protect national security by categorizing information based on the potential damage to national security that could occur if that information is disclosed. The three primary levels of classified information are Confidential, Secret, and Top Secret.

Confidential information is the lowest level of classification and is intended to protect information that, if disclosed, could cause damage to national security. Secret information is a level higher than Confidential and is used for information that, if disclosed, could cause serious damage to national security. Top Secret is the highest level of classification, which protects information that could cause exceptionally grave damage to national security if disclosed.

“Restricted,” on the other hand, does not fall within these established categories of classified information. While "Restricted" may refer to information that is sensitive or requires protection, it is not a formal classification level within the U.S. government's security classification system. Instead, it is often used in other contexts, such as in personnel management or other sensitive but unclassified situations.

By identifying “Restricted” as the choice that is not a level of classified information, the distinction between formal classifications and other forms of handling sensitive material is highlighted.