INFORMATION SECURITY: Comments on the Proposed Government Information Security Act of 1999
Abstract
I am pleased to be here to discuss 5. 1993, the Government Information Security Act of 1999, which seeks to strengthen information security practices throughout the federal government. Such efforts are necessary and critical. Our work has shown that almost all government agencies are plagued by poor computer security. Recent events such as the denial of service attacks last month indicate the damage that can occur when an organization's computer security defenses are breached. However, Mr. Chairman, let me emphasize that the potential for more serious disruption is significant. As I stated in recent testimony, our nation's computer-based infrastructures are at increasing risk of severe disruption. The dramatic increase of computer interconnectivity, while beneficial in many ways, has provided pathways among systems that, if not properly secured, can be used to gain unauthorized access to data and operations from remote locations. Government officials are increasingly worried about attacks from individuals and groups with malicious intentions, such as terrorists and nations engaging in information warfare.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 02, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA391076
Entities
People
- Jack L. Brock
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office