What this control covers
Downgrade system media containing classified information before release to unauthorized individuals, using approved tools/techniques to sanitize and transfer to unclassified media. This control supports the Classified Information Downgrading capability within the Media Protection family.
Why it matters
Risk is the language an executive team understands; this control connects technical reality to board-level decisions and budget allocation.
How to implement
AWS
Codify the policy intent as SCPs, AWS Config conformance packs, and Security Hub standards so the cloud enforces what the document says.
Azure
Codify in Azure Policy initiatives (built-in regulatory compliance for CIS, ISO 27001, SOC 2, HIPAA) and assign at management-group level.
On-premises
Maintain a policy library with a documented review cadence (annual minimum); store in your GRC tool with attestation tracking. Map each policy to controls so an audit pull cites the exact policy clause.
Evidence to collect
policy_document— A signed, version-controlled policy stating leadership intent and the named owner.
Signed policy or standard documents the safeguard. Focus: Classified Information.
Quick checklist
- Policy — Management / Information
- Information — Management / Information
- Protection — Management / Information
- Transfer — Management / Information
- Unauthorized — Management / Information
- System — Management / Information
Related articles on this site
- NIST 800-171 3.8.3 Sanitize or destroy system media containing CUI before disposal or release for reuse.
- NIST 800-171 3.8.1 Protect (i.e., physically control and securely store) system media containing CUI, both paper and digital.
- NIST 800-171 3.13.4 Prevent unauthorized and unintended information transfer via shared system resources.
- CMMC 2.0 SC.3.182 Prevent unauthorized and unintended information transfer via shared system resources.