Modernization

IRS pushes back on data protection criticisms

Officials cite lower rates of fraudulent tax returns as a mark of improving taxpayer security, but external hacks and internal reviews demonstrate the agency still faces challenges.

Cybersecurity

China's push to lead in AI

China's new cybersecurity law does more than undergird plans for AI market dominance -- it shows how the government is building out rules for a new age of computing.

Cybersecurity

Is the U.S. ready for a quantum leap in computing?

While widespread use of quantum computing is likely still years away, experts stress that government should ramp up preparations for a future that could disrupt the underpinnings of conventional encryption.

Cybersecurity

White House: No new policy for encrypted chat apps

In a terse response to probing questions from Capitol Hill, a White House liaison indicates that there's no new policy when it comes to encrypted messaging platforms.

Digital Government

Russia’s Troll Factory Also Paid for 100 Activists in the US

The trolls produced content aimed at riling both the left and right.

Emerging Tech

In the Future, Drones Will Charge Your Electric Car While You’re Driving

For now, countries are focusing on adding charging stations.

Cybersecurity

Air Force takes cyber message 'beyond the uniform'

The Air Force has rolled out a new cyber hygiene program for service members and their extended families.

Ideas

Are Careless Insiders the Biggest Federal Cyber Threat?

Agencies face a ton of cybersecurity threats, but hapless insiders are especially worrisome, according to a recent survey.

Emerging Tech

Americans Appreciate What Technology Has Done for Them More Than Equality and Civil Rights

Nearly half of Americans feel this way.

Digital Government

Is Your Agency Ready to Solve Its Problems?

A Stanford faculty member says agencies need a specific infrastructure to support innovation programs.

Cybersecurity

Why the Russia Fake News Scandal Hasn’t Touched Snapchat

Snapchat is deliberately much stricter than other social media companies about which news outlets it partners with.

Emerging Tech

Survey: 42% of Feds Say Increasing Workloads Merit More Automation

More than 75 percent of respondents said they spend at least a quarter of their workday on tedious administrative tasks.

Modernization

Twitter's Harassment Problem Is Baked Into Its Design

Many women recently boycotted the social network, protesting its failure as a public sphere where all voices are welcome.

Cybersecurity

The KRACK Security Flaw Affects Everyone. Yes, Even You.

All devices connected to Wi-Fi are vulnerable, a security researcher says.

Digital Government

GAO Denies Equifax Bid Protest on IRS Contract

In its ruling, GAO said Equifax’ contentions were “unreasonable,” allowing IRS to move forward on a contract with Experian.

Cybersecurity

DHS mandates new security standards for federal networks

The Department of Homeland Security is requiring agencies to use new email and web security protocols.

Cybersecurity

IG: Infosec weaknesses at Energy continue

While DOE has gotten better at protecting sensitive information, the agency still shows weaknesses in vulnerability management, business web applications and access controls.

Cybersecurity

Meet the Army's cyber protection force

Army Cyber Commander Lt. Gen. Paul Nakasone explained the command's challenges and staffing and training plans.

Cybersecurity

DHS to Order Agencies Implement Email, Website Encryption Tools

Agencies must implement DMARC and STARTTLS within three months, according to the DHS order.

Digital Government

GAO denies Equifax bid protest

The protest had resulted in a controversial (and now suspended) bridge contract from the IRS for Equifax's identity management and taxpayer fraud protection services.