Digital Government

Lawmakers Ask Watchdog to Review New Coronavirus Data Reporting System Housed Within HHS 

“We are concerned that these reporting changes undermine the nation’s COVID-19 response efforts,” wrote top House Energy and Commerce Committee members. 

Digital Government

National Data Service Must Be Shaped by Agencies’ Needs, Experts Say

“Build it and they will come” isn’t the way to start a service, according to data experts.

Cybersecurity

The President’s Cup Cybersecurity Competition Is Underway

The competition is open to any federal employee, including the Department of Defense and uniformed service members.

Cybersecurity

Voice phishing attacks on the rise, CISA, FBI warn

An industry alert warns of an increasingly sophisticated social engineering campaign since July that is targeting VPNs and teleworkers.

Cybersecurity

For Election Administrators, Death Threats Have Become Part of the Job

In a polarized society, the bureaucrats who operate the machinery of democracy are taking flak from all sides. More than 20 have resigned or retired since March 1, thinning their ranks at a time when they are most needed.

Emerging Tech

Google Offering Near Real-Time Maps of Wildfire Boundaries

The company’s announcement comes as destructive fires are burning in a number of western states.

Cybersecurity

GAO rejects bid by DHS to rescind opinion on illegal appointments

The Government Accountability Office is sticking to its guns on its legal opinion that states that top officials at the Department Homeland Security were elevated in violation of federal law.

Acquisition

STARS III deadline draws near

The STARS II small business contract proved so popular that its ceiling value has been extended several times, but the General Services Administration is ready for its successor.

Modernization

7 of 10 Agencies Respond to Senator’s Request for IT Modernization Plans

Sen. Maggie Hassan asked for updates on the government’s 10 legacy systems previously flagged as most in need of an update.

Ideas

Why CMMC Could Be Our Best Weapon to Fight Back Against Chinese IP Theft

The newfound penchant toward action is an opportunity to raise the bar for cybersecurity and better secure American IP.

Digital Government

FCW Insider: Aug 21

The latest news and analysis from FCW's reporters and editors.

Digital Government

Quick Hits

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Ideas

9 Reasons You Can Be Optimistic that a Vaccine for COVID-19 Will Be Widely Available in 2021

Safety of a new COVID-19 vaccine is improved by researchers’ understanding of potential vaccine side effects and how to avoid them.

Cybersecurity

Tracking Robocalls Debunks Myths and Clears Up Mysteries

Researchers found that answering a robocall doesn't doom you to more.

Cybersecurity

Pentagon Acquisition Chief Clarifies Temporary Extension for Implementing Chinese Equipment Ban

A recent memo allows vendors additional time to comply with Section 889 for certain low-risk goods, but the department is not seeking mass extensions, Ellen Lord told reporters.

Policy

What the Post Office Needs to Survive a Pandemic Election

Fueled by the president’s unfounded claims about rampant voter fraud, and reports of equipment being removed, the plight of the United States Postal Service has captured America’s attention. Will it collapse? Here’s what you need to know.

Acquisition

DOD's China-tech waiver targets high-volume buys, excludes major weapons systems

Nearly three-fourths of what the Defense Department buys will be temporarily exempt from the government-wide Huawei ban.

Acquisition

Pentagon advances domestic drone plan

The Defense Department names five U.S. vendors for domestic sourcing of small drone aircraft.

Emerging Tech

Homeland Security Testing Lab Wants to Hear About the Best Temperature Screening Tools in the Market

The tools will be assessed and included on a list of recommended products for federal and local emergency responders and law enforcement.