A mandatory condition for obtaining access to classified information is completing training in classified information. During such training, participants gain knowledge about the principles and legal foundations of the classified information protection system, applied procedures, methods of securing information, and actions to be taken in case of threats or unauthorized disclosure.
Training in the Protection of Classified Information
Pursuant to Article 19 of the Act on the Protection of Classified Information, training in the protection of classified information is intended to familiarize participants with:
- the regulations governing the protection of classified information and the scope of criminal, disciplinary, and official liability for their violation, in particular for the unauthorized disclosure of such information;
- the principles of protecting classified information necessary for the performance of work or service duties, including the principles of information security risk management and risk assessment;
- the methods of protecting classified information and the procedures to be followed in the event of a threat or disclosure of such information.
Who conducts the training?
Training in the field of classified information protection is conducted by:
- The Internal Security Agency (ABW) or the Military Counterintelligence Service (SKW) – for security officers, their deputies, persons designated for these positions, sole traders, and heads of entities where no security officer has been appointed;
- ABW or SKW jointly with the security officer – for the heads of organizational units where information classified as “Top Secret” or “Secret” is processed;
- The security officer – for other employees, service members, or persons performing contracted tasks within the organizational unit;
- ABW – for members of parliament and senators.
The Necessity of Training for Access to Classified Information
Access to classified information requires completing training—this is a requirement specified in Article 21(1)(2) and Article 21(4)(2) of the Classified Information Protection Act. Individuals who do not have adequate knowledge of the principles and procedures for protecting classified information cannot be granted access.
The Act mandates that classified information training must be conducted at least once every five years. In practice, it is recommended to hold it more frequently, especially in the case of significant changes to the applicable regulations.
Training at Avsec.pl
In accordance with the above, the Security Officer for Classified Information at Avsec.pl is authorized to organize and conduct training for individuals performing contracted tasks within the organizational unit, i.e., exclusively for entities cooperating with Avsec.pl under a cooperation agreement that includes activities related to the protection of classified information.
