Access Control
& Security Systems

Progress has been made over the past year, but some critical federal operations, assets and information security procedures remain at risk, according to a new report by the General Accounting Office (GAO).

The GAO examined the information security of 24 federal agencies.

Some of the major information security weaknesses the GAO identifies include access control and security program management. The agency suggests three steps to ensure information security receives "appropriate attention."

• Delineate the roles and responsibilities of the numerous entities involved in federal information security and related aspects of critical infrastructure.


• Provide more specific guidance on the controls agencies need to implement.


• Obtain technical expertise to select, implement and maintain controls to protect information systems.

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