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U.S. quantum cryptography standards set for release next week

NIST’s flagship post-quantum cryptography guidance that would help protect against decryption capabilities enabled by quantum computers aimed for release the week of Aug. 12.

In reversal, AT&T says most FirstNet customers impacted in data breach disclosed last week

“We now believe the proportion of FirstNet numbers included in the data is similar to that of our broader customer base,” the company said in a statement.

Data can be a double-edged sword in generative AI, agency experts say

Though there are myriad federal use cases for generative AI applications, usability hinges on clean, organized input data.

Bill would require Commerce to launch AI public awareness campaign

The education campaign acts on a proposal included in the Bipartisan Senate AI Working Group’s framework that was released last month.

US blacklists sale of Russia-based Kaspersky products over ties to Kremlin

The Commerce Department says the company’s links to Russia’s government pose a national security risk, opening up systems using its software to cyber exploitation.

Commerce seeks insight on how to make its data more AI-friendly

A new request for information issued by the Department of Commerce asks for expert commentary on how the agency can better structure and disseminate its publicly available data.

Export control agency lacks funding and tech to manage its workload, official says 

The head of the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security gave lawmakers “an emphatic no” when asked if his office has the IT resources it needs to carry out its mission.

Chip manufacturers operational by 2030 will get priority in Commerce funding, secretary says

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said that the agency intends to “maximize our impact in this decade.”

Commerce advisory committee urges government to boost startup access to talent, funding

Congress should fully fund the Economic Development Administration’s regional technology and innovation hubs program to help the U.S. tech sector maintain its global leadership, according to the committee.

Commerce announces AI safety consortium

The new stakeholder group, based at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, will help drive AI safety standards.

Securing emerging tech requires export controls and international partnerships, officials say

During a House hearing on Wednesday, witnesses discussed how to ensure sensitive U.S. technologies and data stay away from Beijing.

André Mendes looks back and forward

The former top tech official at the Department of Commerce looks back on a career in federal IT and previews where he thinks the AI and quantum revolutions will take us.

Agencies have over 1,200 AI uses planned or in operation, watchdog finds

The massive GAO report found that some agencies — like NASA and the Department of Commerce — have made major investments in artificial intelligence, while others struggled to meet federal requirements.

Commerce CIO Mendes announces retirement

After more than 14 years in the federal government, André Mendes is returning to his home state of Texas for a county CIO post.

Commerce launches new safe AI center

The National Institute of Standards and Technology is slated to helm many of the new AI executive order’s guidance documents for safe and responsible development.

Commerce updates semiconductor supply chain alert system

Commerce and the International Trade Administration encouraged public and private organizations to submit reports on disruptions in the microelectronics’ supply chain.

Commerce head envisions innovation pathways under the CHIPS Act

Over a year after the landmark CHIPS and Science Act was passed, Secretary Gina Raimondo said the U.S. needs to “embrace innovation” in semiconductor production.