Emerging Tech

The FBI Just Got 'Hyperconverged' for $28 Million

The new unclassified virtual desktop infrastructure will support 55,000 users.

Cybersecurity

Grassley tries to revive 'going dark' legislative fix

The Obama administration may have shelved a legislative plan to force firms to decrypt communications, but Iowa Republican Sen. Charles Grassley is not having it.

Digital Government

FBI: ‘Dozens’ of Terror Suspects Have Used Encryption to Hide from Law Enforcement

“I’m surprised if it is only a couple dozen people,” says Senate Homeland Security Chairman Ron Johnson.

Cybersecurity

Are our ports protected from cyber pirates?

The Coast Guard looks to get ports and shipping companies talking about the inevitable cyber threats they face.

Digital Government

Former Intelligence Director: Law Enforcement Must 'Adapt' to Encryption

Mike McConnell, who has served as NSA Director and director of national intelligence, continues his new crusade for strong encryption.

Digital Government

FBI: Weaker Encryption Is a Worthwhile Tradeoff for Law Enforcement Access to Data

Government officials sparred with privacy advocates over encryption, but acknowledged that “back doors” come with risks of intrusion.

Cybersecurity

FBI and DHS Warn of Security Risks from the Internet of Things

Wearables, thermostats and insulin dispensers and other everyday objects are not hack proof.

Emerging Tech

No Touching: Agencies Could Soon Collect Fingerprints from Hand Waves

"Contactless fingerprinting" is seen as more hygienic than ink and paper or computer pads.

Digital Government

The FBI’s Charm Offensive on Encryption

“The FBI is not an alien force imposed on the American people,” the agency’s director says, as feds clash with Silicon Valley over encryption standards.

Cybersecurity

Intelligence Chief: OPM Hack Was Not a ‘Cyberattack’

The intrusion of OPM networks did not involve the destruction or manipulation of data.

Modernization

FBI Wants to use Mobile Devices to Collect Biometrics

In an Aug. 3 draft Request for Quotations, the bureau devoted 43 pages to detailing its wide array of requirements for a mobile biometric app able to collect biometrics via an agent’s smartphone.

Digital Government

Lawmakers Probe FBI’s ‘Disturbing’ Use of Spy Planes

The FBI has reportedly been using planes equipped with high-tech cameras and cell-phone tracking technology.

Cybersecurity

FBI Director Blasts Tech Companies Fighting for Encryption

Google, Apple, Facebook and others are urging Obama to back strong encryption, but James Comey worries it will hamper law-enforcement access to critical data.

Cybersecurity

FBI Readies Multimillion Contract for Cyber Expertise

The FBI plans to contract out professional, management and support services for up to $100 million.

Digital Government

Former FBI Director Talks Cybersecurity

Mueller admitted it was his responsibility, as director of the FBI, to ask for clarification on broad technology projects.

Digital Government

Al Franken Urges FBI to Crack Down on Revenge Porn

“New technologies can pose significant threats if bad actors are not held accountable to our nation’s laws,” Franken said.

Digital Government

FBI Denies Intentionally Deleting Encryption Tips from Its Website

“Points for creativity,” a spokesman said Thursday of reports that suggested otherwise.

Cybersecurity

FBI’s Plan to Expand Hacking Power Advances Despite Privacy Fears

Google had warned that the rule change represents a “monumental” constitutional concern.

Digital Government

Commerce Department Launches Private Sector Data Brain Trust

The members of the newly created Data Advisory Council stem from some of the private sector’s leading tech companies.