Cybersecurity

U.S. Blacklists NSO Group and 3 Others for Selling Spyware, Hacking Tools

The Commerce Department says the companies—three from allied nations—acted against U.S. national security interests. 

Digital Government

2020 Census May Have Missed More Than 1.6M Residents

New research from the Urban Institute found that minorities were likely underrepresented in the population count, leaving some states with a windfall of federal funding while others came up short.

Ideas

Is It Time to Ditch Daylight Saving Time?

While many will soon enjoy an extra hour of sleep, our children and pets will be the first to wake.

Cybersecurity

CISA Orders Agencies to Patch Hundreds of Vulnerabilities Under Attack

Remediation of more than a third of the bugs the agency identified is due within two weeks. 

Cybersecurity

TSA Considers Rulemaking Process for Cybersecurity in Transportation Sector

The announcement from a White House official follows pressure from industry and GOP lawmakers questioning the administration’s use of security directives to improve the sector’s cybersecurity.

Artificial Intelligence

EEOC Launches Initiative to Ensure AI Doesn’t Exacerbate Civil Rights Issues

The new program looks to educate employers and employees about how algorithms are used in hiring and other employment decisions.

Digital Government

Better Data Would Help Federal Response to Missing Indigenous Women, Watchdog Says

The Government Accountability Office recommends improving database access and management, as well as better communication, to help resolve cases of missing and murdered Native American and Alaskan women.

Digital Government

Pentagon Removes Thousands of Images of the War in Afghanistan from Website

The move, which officials said is temporary, was prompted by concerns that the Taliban would retaliate against Afghans depicted in them, the Defense Department said.

Emerging Tech

Health Agency Seeks Feedback on Personal Protective Technology Hub

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is looking for innovative ideas to maximize the protection different types of gear offers in different industry sectors. 

Artificial Intelligence

Presidential Advisers Recommend Agencies Invest in Automating Software Assurance

The National Security Telecommunications Advisory Committee is about to meet with senior cybersecurity officials from the White House on the issue.

Cybersecurity

Researchers Push FITARA-Like Scorecard for Cybersecurity

A recent MITRE report lays out eight ways the federal government can improve cybersecurity habits across all agencies, hinging on enhanced Congressional funding and oversight. 

Ideas

Whistleblowers Risk Everything—Lawmakers Must Protect Them

Two pivotal pieces of legislation pending before Congress would strengthen weak whistleblower protection laws.

Digital Government

Elections Officials Are Still Receiving Death Threats and Harassment About the 2020 Election. They’re Asking Congress For Help.

Three state and local election officials testified before a Senate committee about their terrifying experiences since last year’s election in support of proposed voting reform legislation.

Cybersecurity

Most Local Governments Provide Cyber Awareness Training. Why Do 25% Let Elected Leaders Opt Out?

A new survey from the CompTIA Public Technology Institute highlights cybersecurity concerns among municipal IT professionals, including remote work and rising insurance premiums.

Cybersecurity

Utilities Face Growing Global Cyber Threat Landscape

A cybersecurity firm focused on industrial cybersecurity is tracking 15 groups, 11 of which are targeting utilities. 

Digital Government

Vacancies Act Deadline Looms for Many of Biden’s Acting Officials, But the OMB Director Is an Exception

A statutory provision allows the deputy director of the management and budget office to serve as the agency’s acting leader indefinitely. 

Digital Government

Emerging Trends in Customer Experience

Nextgov highlights the latest in digital service delivery in the federal government.