Which of the following is a common misconception regarding unauthorized disclosure?

The choice that highlights a common misconception is that the Whistleblower Protection Act protects employees who unlawfully disclose classified information. This is a misunderstanding of the scope of the Act. While the Whistleblower Protection Act is designed to protect federal employees from retaliation for reporting wrongdoing, it does not provide legal protection for those who disclose classified information in a manner that is unlawful. Disclosures of classified information are subject to strict legal consequences, and the Act does not shield individuals from repercussions if their actions involve violations of security protocols.

Recognizing this distinction emphasizes the importance of understanding the legal framework surrounding whistleblower protections and the serious nature of unauthorized disclosures, especially regarding national security and classified information. This misconception could lead individuals to believe they have legal cover for unauthorized disclosures when they do not.