Which factor is likely to influence the decision to disclose classified information?

The decision to disclose classified information is heavily influenced by data ownership and the consent of the U.S. owner. In the context of foreign disclosure, it is essential that the entity or person who owns the classified information has the ultimate authority over how that information is shared. This means that before any disclosure takes place, there must be a thorough understanding of who holds the rights to the data and whether they have authorized the release to foreign parties.

In situations where sensitive information is involved, the ownership aspect serves as a critical gatekeeping factor. Unauthorized disclosure could lead to security risks or compromise U.S. interests, making it paramount for the disclosing party to ensure they have the proper consent from the rightful owner of the information before proceeding.

While other factors may play a role in the overall decision-making process regarding foreign disclosure, the ownership and consent aspect positions itself as a foundational requirement that must be satisfied to ensure lawful and appropriate handling of classified data.