What part of COMSEC verifies access based on need-to-know?

The correct focus of the question is on operational security, which refers to the measures taken to protect sensitive access and information pertaining to military operations against unauthorized access by ensuring that personnel have access only to information they need to perform their duties. This principle aligns with the need-to-know standard, which is essential in securing sensitive communications.

Operational security encompasses various methods and practices designed to safeguard critical operations and information from potential adversaries. By ensuring that access to information is restricted to only those individuals whose roles necessitate that information, operational security effectively minimizes risks and enhances the overall security posture.

While physical security focuses on securing physical assets and environments, and cryptographic security deals with the encryption of communications, they do not specifically address the principle of access based on operational needs. Information security itself is broader and includes protecting overall data but does not solely emphasize the need-to-know aspect relevant to operational contexts.