Who plays a critical role in managing the response to unauthorized disclosures in the DoD?

The role of security managers is pivotal in managing the response to unauthorized disclosures within the Department of Defense (DoD). They are primarily responsible for developing and implementing security policies and procedures that help safeguard sensitive information. This includes identifying potential vulnerabilities and ensuring compliance with regulations that govern the protection of classified and sensitive data.

Security managers are trained to assess the impact of an unauthorized disclosure, coordinate incident responses, and work closely with law enforcement and legal teams when necessary. They also provide guidance on best practices for information security and can influence the overall culture of security awareness among personnel, making them essential in mitigating risks associated with unauthorized disclosures.

In contrast, while public relations officers may help manage communication during a crisis, their focus is more on public perception than on the technical aspects of security management. External auditors assess compliance with established standards and regulations but do not typically manage incident responses. Information technology staff are crucial for the technical implementation of security measures, yet they often work under the direction of security managers when it comes to policy and response strategies.