Cybersecurity: Actions Needed to Address Challenges Facing Federal Systems

Abstract

Federal agencies, as well as their contractors, depend on interconnected computer systems and electronic data to carry out essential mission-related functions. Thus, the security of these systems and networks is vital to protecting national and economic security, public health and safety, and the flow of commerce. If information security controls are ineffective, resources may be lost, informationincluding sensitive personal informationmay be compromised, and the operations of government and critical infrastructure could be disrupted, with potentially catastrophic effects. Federal law sets forth various requirements, roles, and responsibilities for securing federal agencies systems and information. In addition, GAO has designated federal information security as a high-risk area since 1997. GAO was asked to provide a statement summarizing cyber threats facing federal agency and contractor systems, and challenges in securing these systems. In preparing this statement, GAO relied on its previously published work in this area.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 22, 2015
Accession Number
AD1177327

Entities

People

  • Gregory C. Wilshusen

Organizations

  • United States Government Accountability Office

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Cyber

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accountability
  • Computer Access Control
  • Congress
  • Control Systems
  • Cyber Threats
  • Cyberattacks
  • Cybersecurity
  • Data Leakages
  • Department Of Homeland Security
  • Economic Security
  • Electronic Mail
  • Governments
  • Information Security
  • National Security
  • Public Health
  • Security
  • United States Government

Readers

  • Aviation Safety Risk Assessment.
  • Defense Acquisition Program Management
  • Political Violence and Terrorism Studies.

Technology Areas

  • Cyber
  • Microelectronics