Digital Government

Lawmakers want VA to report on its use of automation to process benefits claims

The legislative proposal seeks to enhance VA’s adoption of new technologies, including providing lawmakers with “a timeline for modifying and implementing the use of such automation tools” in the benefits claims process.

Artificial Intelligence

House lawmakers push measure to limit impact of deceptive AI on elections

The legislation would apply to AI-generated election content that is designed to interfere with voting in federal, state or local contests.

Modernization

Why do federal employee background checks take so long? Panel points to delayed IT system

The Defense Department agency responsible for vetting workers at most federal agencies originally planned to have a new background check system fully functional in 2019.

Artificial Intelligence

Blinken spotlights role of AI in diplomacy

Secretary of State Antony Blinken and other State Department leaders explained how AI use cases such as data analysis and translation are already taking hold at the department.

People

The major takeaways for federal employees from the first presidential debate

President Biden and former President Trump clashed over the role of government and their vision for how to manage agencies.

People

Mitre hires Battelle vet as chief executive

Jason Providakes is retiring after seven years as leader of the nonprofit science and technology organization.

Defense

How DOD plans to make working with emerging tech companies easier

Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer Radha Plumb said the Pentagon is trying “to be less hard to work with” when it comes to engaging with the commercial sector.

Cybersecurity

NYPD officer database had security flaws that could have let hackers covertly modify officer data

The NYPD said no officer data was ever compromised, but it’s unknown how long the vulnerability existed.

Defense

Army plans multiple AI industry partnerships

Leadership from the military branch is interested in incorporating third party-generated algorithms for its operations, and is asking industry players for help.

Cybersecurity

US accuses Russian national of helping deploy malware on Ukrainian government computers

The alleged hacker used U.S. computer infrastructure to distribute the infamous “WhisperGate” malware into Ukrainian systems.

Cybersecurity

DHS cyber hiring program got off on the wrong foot, CIO says, but progress is showing

Ten years after its congressional authorization, the Cybersecurity Talent Management System is closing in on 200 hires.

Digital Government

Supreme Court sides with Biden admin over contact with social media firms

The decision now lifts potential legal burdens on federal agencies’ communications with social media companies about disinformation on their platforms.

Defense

How AI is turning satellite imagery into a window on the future

What can a picture from space tell you? “You're likely to have a drought here that might lead to civil unrest.”

People

DHS hires initial cohort of 10 to join its AI Corps

The Department of Homeland Security’s AI Corps is designed to deploy tech-savvy experts across its operations to drive the adoption of AI capabilities within its various mission areas.

People

Former federal CISO DeRusha joins Google Cloud

He started the position helming the company’s public sector compliance last week, after having led several federal governmentwide cybersecurity initiatives.

Digital Government

House pivots on data privacy bill, removing algorithmic discrimination coverage

The intended final draft of the American Privacy Rights Act includes new language on biometric data and data on minors, but notably removes civil rights protections sought by privacy advocates.

Artificial Intelligence

DHS report details AI’s potential to amplify biological, chemical threats

As artificial intelligence and machine learning continue to intersect with sensitive research efforts, the Department of Homeland Security recommended increased communication and guidance to mitigate dangerous outcomes.

Cybersecurity

CISA infrastructure tool targeted in January breach, agency says

Sensitive information on the chemical security assessment platform was accessed, though it may not be up to date.