[b]
As used in subsection [a] of this section—
The term “classified information” means information which, at the time of a violation of this section, is, for reasons of national security, specifically designated by a United States Government Agency for limited or restricted dissemination or distribution;
The terms “code,” “cipher,” and “cryptographic system” include in their meanings, in addition to their usual meanings, any method of secret writing and any mechanical or electrical device or method used for the purpose of disguising or concealing the contents, significance, or meanings of communications;
The term “foreign government” includes in its meaning any person or persons acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of any faction, party, department, agency, bureau, or military force of or within a foreign country, or for or on behalf of any government or any person or persons purporting to act as a government within a foreign country, whether or not such government is recognized by the United States;
The term “communication intelligence” means all procedures and methods used in the interception of communications and the obtaining of information from such communications by other than the intended recipients;
The term “unauthorized person” means any person who, or agency which, is not authorized to receive information of the categories set forth in subsection [a] of this section, by the President, or by the head of a department or agency of the United States Government which is expressly designated by the President to engage in communication intelligence activities for the United States.
The following state regulations pages link to this page.
Intelligence
Intentionally disclosing classified information without authorization is a federal crime under the espionage act. Punishment may be up to ten years in prison, a large fine, or could even get you charged with treason. But, for the vast majority of individuals who leak classified information – think Reality Winner, Harold Martin, or Chelsea Manning – jail time is often limited and fines non-existent.
Recently Ron Rockwell Hansen was convicted of selling secrets to China – and got a 10-year prison sentence. Hansen received more than $800,000 from China. He also used his online professional networks to try to recruit other spies for China. Hansen is just the latest in a series of aggressive espionage activities by China.
It often seems like a slap on the hand compared to the serious repercussions faced by the federal government. The fact is, it’s very difficult to conduct a trial involving leaks of classified information. When the information involved is sensitive, the government often looks to settle, rather than drag out the case in court.
So, what will happen to you if you leak classified information? If convicted, some jail time is a virtual guarantee, and any hopes of a normal career are over.