Digital Government

Domestic drone backers worry about privacy and security

Lawmakers got a wake-up call after researchers demonstrated how to hijack aircraft’s navigation system.

Cybersecurity

Compliance with wiretap law is transparent, NSA says

As the Pentagon’s warrantless surveillance powers come up for renewal, lawmakers allege the spy agency isn’t open with Congress about their effect on Americans’ privacy.

Cybersecurity

GAO overrules Justice on ID smart card contract, again

Office of Justice Programs is told to reevaluate vendors' proposals for securing computers with ID cards.

Digital Government

White House plans to regulate contractor computer security

Since Congress failed to mandate cyber protections for critical industries, agencies would incentivize safeguards through business deals.

Digital Government

Fingerprint records reveal 825,000 immigrants with multiple names, inconsistent birth dates

Officials don’t know how much is fraud; keyboard errors accounted for many of the discrepancies investigators found.

Digital Government

At NSA, computers sometimes make the policy calls

The military espionage agency automates the work of complying with privacy laws to more efficiently spy on foreigners.

Digital Government

Agencies don’t often share tips on potential terrorist activity

A post-Sept. 11 nationwide reporting system remains underused five years after initiation.

Emerging Tech

FBI gives police free tool to convert photos for facial recognition

Bureau tries to enlarge its biometric database by making it cheaper for local authorities to submit and search suspects’ faces.

Cybersecurity

Cyber Command struggles to define its place on a shifting battlefield

Collateral damage and a dearth of cyberwarriors are among the Pentagon’s biggest hurdles.

Digital Government

FBI lets copyright holders download anti-piracy logo in good faith

The seal, now free at FBI.gov, was previously only provided to industry groups that signed a written agreement.

Emerging Tech

TSA explores full body scans for fugitives hiding in cargo

Agency wants technology for screening stowaways inside containers; experts are skeptical.

Ideas

FTC’s Google Fine Could Cramp Innovation. Or Not.

It also could be relatively meaningless in the ongoing tug of war over Internet privacy.

Digital Government

Customs and Border Protection flouts Napolitano’s vision for IT consolidation

The agency argues buying its own tool to track aircraft inventory is cheaper than collaborating with the Coast Guard to link portfolios.

Cybersecurity

ID thieves claim $5 billion in bogus tax refunds

Electronic deposits allow imposters to cash refund checks without showing photo IDs, IG finds.