What type of action may result from unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information?

Unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information can lead to serious consequences, including criminal prosecution and incarceration. This is because unauthorized disclosures often violate laws and regulations designed to protect sensitive data, such as personal identifiable information (PII) or classified information. When individuals access, share, or manage sensitive information without proper authorization, they may be held accountable under laws pertaining to data privacy, national security, or confidentiality agreements.

For instance, depending on the nature of the information and the extent of the disclosure, individuals could face charges that result in significant legal penalties, including incarceration. The severity reflects the potential harm such disclosures can cause, not just to individuals or organizations but also to national security or public safety.

Other consequences of unauthorized disclosure can indeed include verbal reprimands or requests for additional training, but such outcomes are typically administrative or corrective rather than criminal. Therefore, the most serious potential action stemming from unauthorized disclosure is indeed criminal prosecution, making this the correct answer.