| Security attributes are abstractions representing the basic properties or characteristics of an entity (e.g., subjects and objects) with respect to safeguarding information.
Security attributes are typically associated with internal data structures (e.g., records, buffers, files) within the application and are used to enable the implementation of access control and flow control policies, reflect special dissemination, handling or distribution instructions, or support other aspects of the organizational information security policy.
Organizations define the security attributes of their data (e.g., classified, FOUO, sensitive).
Changing security attributes within an application is usually performed by a person (or persons) who has been delegated the task and the associated responsibilities accorded to application administrative personnel.
Applications creating and/or assigning security attributes to data must have the flexibility to allow authorized staff to change these security attributes.
The sensitivity marking or labeling of data items promotes the correct handling and protection of data. Without such notification, the user may unwittingly disclose sensitive data to unauthorized users. Security labels must be modifiable by authorized individuals in order to maintain their accuracy and applicability. |
