The Software Licensing Disease Infecting Our Nation’s Cybersecurity

June 18, 2024 at 10:03AM Microsoft’s dominance in the public sector technology market has raised concerns about cybersecurity risks and lack of competition. The government’s reliance on Microsoft’s products has led to vulnerabilities and major expenses in cybersecurity. Legislation is being proposed to address these issues, but comprehensive action is needed to tackle the root … Read more

How’s Uncle Sam getting on with Biden’s AI exec order? Pretty good, we’re told

May 27, 2024 at 12:59PM President Biden’s October executive order on AI focused on guiding federal agencies in the safe use of machine learning technologies. The order’s requirements have been well-implemented, with agencies appointing chief data officers and devising data plans. The executive order serves as guardrails for AI deployment, ensuring safe and reliable systems … Read more

Google Cites ‘Monoculture’ Risks in Response to CSRB Report on Microsoft

May 20, 2024 at 03:00PM Google criticizes Microsoft’s dominance in a scathing U.S. government report. They warn of security risks from a Microsoft-centric “monoculture” and advocate for a multi-vendor approach and open standards. Google highlights security failures at Microsoft and emphasizes the need for a more rigorous and proactive approach to digital security in government … Read more

French issue alerte rouge after local governments knocked offline by cyber attack

April 12, 2024 at 01:32AM Multiple French municipal governments experienced a “large-scale cyber attack” on shared servers, causing disruptions to services in Saint-Nazaire, Montoir-de-Bretagne, Donges, La Chapelle-des-marais, Porniche, Sonadev, and the Agency for the Sustainable Development of the Saint Nazaire Region. The origin and duration of the attack are unknown, with potential links to pro-Russia … Read more

Wyden Releases Draft Legislation to End Federal Dependence on Insecure, Proprietary Software

April 8, 2024 at 04:47PM Senator Ron Wyden introduced draft legislation to set mandatory cybersecurity standards, improve government collaboration technology, and break the monopolizing effect of proprietary software. The bill aims to enhance government communications security, promote interoperability, and prevent vendor lock-in. It requires the use of end-to-end encryption and outlines various cybersecurity and procurement … Read more