What is the first action a cleared employee should take upon finding a classified document unsecured?

The first action a cleared employee should take upon finding a classified document unsecured is to ensure that the classified material is secured. This immediate action prioritizes the protection of sensitive information, preventing unauthorized access or potential compromise. Proper security protocols dictate that if an employee encounters unsecured classified material, they must first secure the document to maintain its confidentiality and integrity.

After securing the document, the employee should then follow up with the relevant supervisory personnel to report the incident. This approach allows for the immediate risk to be mitigated while still adhering to the chain of command and reporting procedures. Ensuring the document's security reinforces the responsibility that cleared employees have to protect classified information at all costs.