Modernization
States can keep options open on FirstNet
Even though all 50 states have opted into FirstNet's and AT&T's plans for a nationwide wireless first responders' network, Verizon reminds them they're not obligated.
Digital Government
When government gets it right
Steve Kelman reports on an encounter with exceptional service, and considers what agencies need to deliver such an experience.
Cybersecurity
CBP revises rules for device searches at the border
New guidelines prevent law enforcement from trying to hack phones or access content on the cloud without "reasonable suspicion."
Modernization
OCIO gets a seat at the table on DOD's cloud team
Pentagon acquisition chief Ellen Lord has been replaced as the chair of the group overseeing the massive cloud initiative known as the Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure.
Artificial Intelligence
We Should Raise AIs Like Parents, Not Programmers—Or They’ll Turn Into Terrible Toddlers
At its core, creating a safe AI is not that different than raising a decent human.
Digital Government
Twitter: We’re Not Going to Ban Donald Trump
The company reaffirmed it's somewhat unclear terms of service.
Emerging Tech
A High-Stakes Dress Rehearsal for SpaceX
Elon Musk plans to launch the Falcon Heavy later this month—but first, the rocket has to survive a big test.
Emerging Tech
The CDC Is Now Officially Planning For a Nuclear Attack
Welcome to 2018. It’s been an apocalyptic start to the new year.
Emerging Tech
The Free Market Won’t Fix Botnets, Government Report Says
The government should create incentives for good security in the internet of things.
Digital Government
IG Calls Out Homeland Security for ‘Questionable’ Spending Data
Auditors said more than 60 percent of transactions had errors, but Homeland Security officials disagree.
Ideas
State-Sponsored Internet and App Shutdowns Damage Economies—And Freedom
We cannot turn a blind eye to it.
Ideas
What Digital Government CX Pros Should Know About the Connected Government Act
Not everything comes to a standstill in D.C. during the holidays.
Digital Government
Why making the White House a no-phone zone makes sense
A new policy to eliminate personal devices from the West Wing may be aimed at plugging leaks, but it could prove a smart move when it comes to security.
Cybersecurity
Can federal purchasing power counteract botnets?
New guidance required under the cybersecurity EO suggests that government purchasing power could induce tech manufacturers, especially in the emerging IoT space, to market more secure devices.
Cybersecurity
Feds face limited options for Meltdown, Spectre bugs
Patches can mitigate some of the vulnerabilities found in virtually every processor, but a DHS spokesperson said decisions on hardware replacement will be left up to individual agencies and CIOs.
People
OPM extends pay freeze for senior ranks
The Office of Personnel Management is extending a pay freeze for senior political officials — at least until Congress passes appropriations legislation.
Emerging Tech
Report: Post Offices Should Automate Pen-and-Paper Safety Checks
Automating compliance checklists could save time and result in better data, the Postal Service inspector general found.
Modernization
Why the telecom transition makes it a good time for UC
The transition to the $50 billion Enterprise Infrastructure Solutions contract should have feds thinking about unified communications in the cloud.
Emerging Tech