What defines an actual compromise of classified information?

The correct understanding of an actual compromise of classified information is centered around the disclosure of that information. When classified information is disclosed, it means that sensitive data has been made available beyond the authorized or intended audience. This act may result in significant national security risks, loss of trust in information security protocols, or even endanger individuals' lives, depending on the nature of the information.

Although other scenarios listed might indicate vulnerabilities or potential threats to security, they do not constitute an actual compromise. For instance, the potential risk of security information being accessed denotes a situation that could lead to a compromise, but it has not happened yet. Similarly, unauthorized access to classified documents might indicate that someone has gained access without permission, but unless that information has been disclosed, it does not meet the threshold for a compromise. Similarly, failure to follow security protocols reflects poor practice but does not imply that a compromise has occurred until disclosure takes place.

Thus, the clear threshold for defining an actual compromise is the act of disclosing classified information, which leads to the potential for real damage or risk to national security.