Communications Security

Communications Security (COMSEC) — Cryptosecurity, Transmission, Physical

Communications Security Foundation

COMSEC Definition

Communications security refers to measures and controls taken to:

Deny unauthorized persons information derived from information systems of the U.S. Government related to national security
Ensure the authenticity of such information systems

COMSEC Protection Source

Communications security protection results from applying security measures to communications and information systems:

Generating classified or sensitive information
Handling classified or sensitive information
Storing classified or sensitive information
Processing classified or sensitive information
Using classified or sensitive information

Loss Impact

COMSEC Loss Impact

The loss of which could adversely affect national security interests.

COMSEC Physical Measures

Communications security also entails applying physical security measures to communications security information or materials.

Three COMSEC Components

3 COMSEC Components.

Cryptosecurity
Transmission Security
Physical Security

Cryptosecurity

Cryptosecurity Definition

Cryptosecurity is a component of communications security resulting from:

The provision of technically sound cryptosystems
The proper use of technically sound cryptosystems

Transmission Security

Transmission Security Definition

Transmission security is a component of communications security resulting from the application of measures designed to:

Protect transmissions from interception
Protect transmissions from exploitation by means other than cryptoanalysis

Transmission Security Examples

Examples of transmission security measures include using:

Secured communications systems
Registered mail
Secure telephone and facsimile equipment
Manual cryptosystems
Call signs
Authentication to transmit classified information

Physical Security

COMSEC Physical Security Definition

Physical security is communications security resulting from the use of all physical measures necessary to safeguard communications security material from access by unauthorized persons.

Physical Security Measures

Physical security measures include:

Application of control procedures
Physical barriers

Physical Security Functions

Physical security also:

Ensures continued integrity
Prevents access by unauthorized persons
Controls the spread of communications security techniques and technology when not in the best interest of the United States and our allies

Common Physical Security Measures

Common physical security measures include:

Verifying the need to know and clearance of personnel granted access
Following proper storage and handling procedures
Accurately accounting for all materials
Transporting materials using authorized means
Immediately reporting the loss or possible compromise of materials