Information Security: Agencies Report Progress, But Sensitive Data Remain at Risk

Weaknesses in information security (IS) in the fed. gov¿t. are a problem with potentially devastating consequences -- such as intrusions by malicious users, compromised networks, & the theft of personally identifiable info; it is a high-risk issue. Concerned by reports of significant vulnerabilities in fed. computer systems, Congress passed the Fed. Info. Security Mgmt. Act of 2002 (FISMA), which authorized & strengthened the IS program, eval¿n., & reporting require. for fed. agencies. This testimony discusses security incidents reported at fed. agencies, the continued weaknesses in IS controls at major fed. agencies, agencies¿ progress in performing key control activities, & oppor. to enhance FISMA reporting & independent evaluations. Tables.