Mobile

Public sector apps face widespread security challenges, report reveals

A new study found alarming security vulnerabilities across the vast majority of public applications over the last year.

New bill proposes 'made in China' tags for mobile apps

The legislation would require large online app stores — including Apple’s App Store and Google Play — to disclose the countries where their apps were developed and are currently owned.

New Movie Chronicles Rise and Fall of Government’s First Secure Smartphone Devices

BlackBerry devices were at one time almost completely ubiquitous in government service.

Report: Pentagon Personnel Use Unauthorized, Unsafe Apps on Work Devices

The Defense Department’s inspector general found that unsanctioned apps downloaded onto government-issued mobile devices “could pose operational and cybersecurity risks to DOD information and information systems.”

Asylum-Seekers Can Now Schedule Entry Appointments in Advance via CBP Mobile App

Customs and Border Protection’s mobile application, launched in October 2020 to streamline access to customs services, now includes a function for migrants to schedule appointments at select U.S. ports of entry.

FCC Moves to Limit the Number of Spam and Scam Texts

The proposed rule out of the Federal Communications Commission notes such messages should be blocked “at the network level.”

FCC Probe Reveals Mobile Carriers’ Data Management Practices are ‘All Over the Map’

The last time the FCC investigated mobile carriers’ practices regarding location data, it resulted in fines Jessica Rosenworcel—now chair of the commission—said were unjustly meager.

DHS Commits to Better Intel Sharing with Law Enforcement, Points to Mobile App

Whether the department has increased information sharing with government partners is unclear, but—either way—the quality is just not there, according to DHS’ Office of the Inspector General.

Mobile Threats Prompt Operational Changes for Government Staff

More than 80% of public sector respondents to a recent survey said they have been forced to re-evaluate workplace practices as attacks on mobile devices grow.

Apple Wallet goes live for ID verification at TSA checkpoint

Arizona is the first to integrate Apple’s biometric verification at airport security checkpoints.

New App Tracks Terrorism-Linked Events in Local U.S. Communities

It marks an enhancement of the information-sharing capabilities the National Counterterrorism Center offered before.

Apple Yields to DIY Movement as ‘Right to Repair’ Bills Proliferate

The self-repair movement still has a long way to go, advocates say.

Are People Lying More Since the Rise of Social Media and Smartphones?

Some forms of technology seem to facilitate lying more than others.

Facebook Can Sue Israel’s NSO Group, Appeals Court Says

The case against the NSO Group appears to scratch the surface of problematic commercial hacking tools sold at arms markets, which the U.S. government has only just begun trying to control.

What Agencies and Industry Can Learn from Sharing Cyber Threat Intel

Federal agencies should seek industry partners that can keep them better informed and offer resources they can’t access. 

Working Group Breaks Down the Keys to Securing Mobile Devices

The Federal Mobility Group’s new guidance includes four strategic pillars that form the foundations of mobile security.