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Computer Security: Virus Highlights Need for Improved Internet Management

IMTEC-89-57 Published: Jun 12, 1989. Publicly Released: Jul 20, 1989.
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Highlights

Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the November 1988 Internet computer virus incident.

Recommendations

Recommendations for Executive Action

Agency Affected Recommendation Status
Office of Science and Technology Policy The President's Science Advisor, Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), should coordinate, through the Federal Coordinating Council on Science, Engineering, and Technology, the establishment of an interagency group to serve as an Internet security focal point. This group should include representatives from the federal agencies that fund Internet research networks and should: (1) provide Internet-wide policy, direction, and coordination in security-related areas to help ensure that the vulnerabilities highlighted by the recent incidents are effectively addressed; (2) support efforts already underway to enhance Internet security and, where necessary, assist these efforts to ensure their success; (3) develop mechanisms for obtaining the involvement of Internet users, systems software vendors, industry and technical groups, such as the Internet Activities Board, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the National Security Agency, the government agencies with responsibilities for federal computer security; and (4) become an integral part of the structure that emerges to manage the National Research Network.
Closed – Not Implemented
OSTP has not decided upon action, but does not intend to follow this recommendation. Action taken will be dependent on legislation introduced creating a National Research and Education Network. This bill has not yet been acted upon.

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Topics

Science and Technology
Computer crimesComputer networksComputer securitySoftwareEmergency responseComputer virusesData transmissionInformation systemsInteragency relationsInternetLaw enforcement