Mobile
DOD ordered to evaluate mobile device cybersecurity in 2025 defense bill
The evaluations would include basic tools like virtual private networks that encrypt connections when browsing the web.
GSA launches text message service for government programs in four localities and states
Norfolk, Virginia has already been using the service to remind people about Medicaid recertification.
ICE’s ‘outdated and overly permissive’ device policy left the agency vulnerable, watchdog warns
A spring audit of agency mobile devices found several banned and outdated applications installed on personnel and contractor smartphones.
Russian cyber group unleashes new malware campaign on Ukrainian military targets
A new report says a cyber threat actor within Russia’s military intelligence service leveraged a novel malware campaign targeting Android devices used by the Ukrainian military.
Public sector apps face widespread security challenges, report reveals
A new study found alarming security vulnerabilities across the vast majority of public applications over the last year.
New bill proposes 'made in China' tags for mobile apps
The legislation would require large online app stores — including Apple’s App Store and Google Play — to disclose the countries where their apps were developed and are currently owned.
New Movie Chronicles Rise and Fall of Government’s First Secure Smartphone Devices
BlackBerry devices were at one time almost completely ubiquitous in government service.
Report: Pentagon Personnel Use Unauthorized, Unsafe Apps on Work Devices
The Defense Department’s inspector general found that unsanctioned apps downloaded onto government-issued mobile devices “could pose operational and cybersecurity risks to DOD information and information systems.”
Asylum-Seekers Can Now Schedule Entry Appointments in Advance via CBP Mobile App
Customs and Border Protection’s mobile application, launched in October 2020 to streamline access to customs services, now includes a function for migrants to schedule appointments at select U.S. ports of entry.
FCC Moves to Limit the Number of Spam and Scam Texts
The proposed rule out of the Federal Communications Commission notes such messages should be blocked “at the network level.”
FCC Probe Reveals Mobile Carriers’ Data Management Practices are ‘All Over the Map’
The last time the FCC investigated mobile carriers’ practices regarding location data, it resulted in fines Jessica Rosenworcel—now chair of the commission—said were unjustly meager.
DHS Commits to Better Intel Sharing with Law Enforcement, Points to Mobile App
Whether the department has increased information sharing with government partners is unclear, but—either way—the quality is just not there, according to DHS’ Office of the Inspector General.
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Mobile Threats Prompt Operational Changes for Government Staff
More than 80% of public sector respondents to a recent survey said they have been forced to re-evaluate workplace practices as attacks on mobile devices grow.
Apple Wallet goes live for ID verification at TSA checkpoint
Arizona is the first to integrate Apple’s biometric verification at airport security checkpoints.
New App Tracks Terrorism-Linked Events in Local U.S. Communities
It marks an enhancement of the information-sharing capabilities the National Counterterrorism Center offered before.
Apple Yields to DIY Movement as ‘Right to Repair’ Bills Proliferate
The self-repair movement still has a long way to go, advocates say.
Are People Lying More Since the Rise of Social Media and Smartphones?
Some forms of technology seem to facilitate lying more than others.
Facebook Can Sue Israel’s NSO Group, Appeals Court Says
The case against the NSO Group appears to scratch the surface of problematic commercial hacking tools sold at arms markets, which the U.S. government has only just begun trying to control.
What Agencies and Industry Can Learn from Sharing Cyber Threat Intel
Federal agencies should seek industry partners that can keep them better informed and offer resources they can’t access.
Working Group Breaks Down the Keys to Securing Mobile Devices
The Federal Mobility Group’s new guidance includes four strategic pillars that form the foundations of mobile security.
