Not all sensitive information is classified at the highest levels in the law enforcement sector. Some of it falls into a category known as Law Enforcement Sensitive (LES). While not a national secret, this unclassified information still requires careful handling. Let’s dive into what LES is, how it’s used, and how it compares to other types of sensitive information.
What Is Law Enforcement Sensitive Information (LES)?
Law Enforcement Sensitive (LES) is a label used by agencies with law enforcement missions to indicate that certain unclassified law enforcement sensitive information needs to be protected from unauthorized disclosure. This information often relates to ongoing investigations, criminal prosecutions, or sensitive techniques that law enforcement agencies use to solve crimes and protect public safety.
For example, an LES label might be attached to a report that contains details about an undercover operation, the identity of an informant, or the specifics of an investigative method that, if revealed, could compromise the entire operation. The purpose of this label is to ensure that only those who absolutely need to see the information can access it, thereby preventing leaks that could jeopardize the integrity of the investigation or the safety of individuals involved.
Handling and Sharing LES Information
One of the key aspects of law enforcement information is its strict handling requirements. While it’s unclassified, it can’t be freely shared like other unclassified government data. For instance, releasing law enforcement sensitive classification information to foreign entities requires prior approval from the originating agency and must comply with all relevant directives, including those from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.
Moreover, agencies that create LES information have the option to share it within controlled environments. This might include posting it on a secure, classified network or an unclassified virtual private network with strict access controls. However, the information can’t be posted on public websites or shared broadly without permission.
How LES Compares to Other Sensitive Information
To understand LES better, it’s helpful to compare it with other categories of sensitive information:
- For Official Use Only (FOUO): This label is used across various government agencies to mark unclassified information that isn’t yet approved for public release. Like LES, FOUO information requires protection but applies more broadly across all government agencies.
- Personally Identifiable Information (PII): PII refers to any data that can identify an individual, such as a name or Social Security number. While not specifically a law enforcement label, PII is highly sensitive and must be protected to prevent identity theft or privacy violations.
- Sensitive Security Information (SSI): SSI is related to transportation security and is governed by federal law. Like LES, SSI is unclassified but still requires careful handling due to the potential risks if it were publicly disclosed.
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Why LES Matters
The proper handling of LES information is crucial for maintaining the integrity of law enforcement activities. Unauthorized disclosure could compromise investigations, put lives at risk, and undermine the public’s trust in law enforcement agencies. By keeping this information secure, agencies can continue their work effectively and protect the interests of justice.
LES in a Digital World
In the past, sensitive information was primarily stored in physical documents. Now, modern law enforcement agencies rely heavily on digital systems to store, process, and share LES data.
One of the primary risks in the digital handling of LES information is the potential for unauthorized access through cyberattacks, data breaches, or human error. LES data, though unclassified, can contain details about ongoing investigations, undercover operations, or critical law enforcement techniques, making it a prime target for malicious actors. If compromised, it could lead to the exposure of sensitive operations, endangering individuals and jeopardizing law enforcement efforts.
To mitigate these risks, agencies use several strategies to secure LES information in the digital realm:
- Encryption: Sensitive LES data is encrypted during storage and transmission. This ensures that even if the data is intercepted or stolen, it remains unreadable without the proper decryption keys.
- Access Controls: Digital platforms allow for more granular access controls, ensuring that only authorized individuals with specific permissions can view or modify LES data. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) and role-based access controls are often used to limit who can access the information.
- Secure Networks: Agencies often use virtual private networks (VPNs) and secure communication channels to share LES information across agencies or between departments. This helps protect the data from being intercepted during transmission.
- Auditing and Monitoring: Digital systems allow for real-time monitoring of access to LES information. If unauthorized access attempts occur, they can be flagged, and appropriate actions can be taken swiftly. Regular audits of data access also ensure that no breaches or misuse go unnoticed.
- Training and Awareness: Since human error is a significant factor in data breaches, law enforcement personnel are trained to handle LES data securely, even in a digital environment. This includes understanding the risks of phishing attacks, using unsecured devices, and the penalty for mishandling classified information.
Centraleyes offers advanced solutions that help organizations with risk and compliance management.
Centraleyes empowers agencies to safely navigate the complexities of digital data management, allowing law enforcement professionals to focus on what they do best—protecting public safety.
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Centraleyes for Free
See for yourself how the Centraleyes platform exceeds anything an old GRC
system does and eliminates the need for manual processes and spreadsheets
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