Government IT News For VARs — December 3, 2014
By Christine Kern, contributing writer
In news, Regin Malware identified in spying campaigns, law enforcement agencies turn to body sensors to help collect data more efficiently, and bidding for the FCC’s wireless spectrum skyrockets. Also, new insider threat programs must include more robust reinvestigations.
Regin Malware Identified In Spying Campaigns
Symantec has reported the rise of a sophisticated malware program called Regin that has been utilized in systematic spying campaigns since at least 2008, according to the E-commerce Times. The malware has been used against a wide range of international targets, and is a “backdoor-type trojan with a structure that displays a degree of technical competence rarely seen in malware.”
Law Enforcement Agencies Test Sensors
Fed Tech Magazine reported that law enforcement agencies are finding that the use of body-worn sensors helps officers do their jobs. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is testing body cameras that include a smartphone app that enables agents to collect GPS coordinates, tag video, and collect weather and terrain conditions and other data.
Bidding For FCC’s Wireless Spectrum Auction Goes Sky High
The E-Commerce Times reported that bidders anxious to gain AWS wireless spectrum in the FCC’s latest auction were willing to pay through the nose, hoping to stockpile spectrum to “future-proof themselves.” The auction, titled “Auction 87 in the Advanced Wireless Services (AWS-3)” drew a total of 70 qualified bidders, seeking 1,614 licenses in the 1695-1710 Mhz, 1755-1780 Mhz, and 2155-2180 MHz bands.
Agencies Develop Insider Threat Programs That Include Robust Reinvestigations
Fed Tech Magazine reported that a key element of the 2015 insider threat program will be robust reinvestigations of individuals who have previously been cleared to maintain their eligibility for access to classified information. In light of growing threats to data security, from both outside and within, agencies have had to tighten their assessment processes. Now, more than 70 departments and agencies must implement minimum standards to combat insider threats, including the designation of a senior official to head insider threat initiatives and the adoption of an insider threat policy with a corresponding plan for implementation.
Government IT Talking Points:
The FAA is reportedly set to issue rules that will require pilot certification to fly drones for commercial purposes, according to Information Week, thus placing a regulatory collar on the widespread use of unmanned aircraft systems.
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