Method of and system for message classification of web email

Web based e-mail classification is disclosed. A toolbar (208, 302) adds the ability to classify messages such as web e-mail, calendar items and meeting 5 appointments based on specific properties such as security classification, information type, document type, document retention, document caveats, and the like associated with the message. The toolbar (208, 302) through dropdown selections (304, 306) allows users to select the appropriate classification and properties based upon the content of the message. Administrators can predefine all 0 the classification selections that are available to the user. E-mail classification properties are generated that are associated with the message by metadata (700) insertion and by inserting visual markings (404, 408, 410) that allow users to quickly identify the security, sensitivity, intended distribution or retention of the e-mail or calendar item. By utilizing the classification toolbar (208, 302) a user can classify 5 an e-mail by one or more classification levels and be ensured that the message is delivered and processed in the appropriate manner.