DoDEA Issues New Cybersecurity Guidelines
Computer users within DoDEA will probably notice changes in the log-on procedures this school year. These changes are part of a larger effort by DoDEA to stay a step ahead of evolving cybersecurity threats such as viruses, infiltration, and spyware. Since September 2008, DoDEA's Chief Information Officer Jeff Friedler has been implementing these changes and updating DoDEA's network systems to align with DoD Information Assurance standards. "With each subtle change we make, we tighten the layers of security within the DoDEA system,"said Friedler. "Even small changes have the potential to make a huge impact on our cybersecurity."
This school year, DoDEA has changed cybersecurity procedures. The majority of these changes are transparent to "end-users" such as DoDEA educators and staff. However, both staff members and students will benefit from new password guidelines. The password requirements were defined through joint discussions with the DoDEA Head-quarters Information Technology and Education Offices.
Computers will also automatically "lock out" for a short period of time after repeated unsuccessful attempts to enter a password to prevent unauthorized users from accessing DoDEA systems. In addition, any computer left unattended and unused for a given period of time will automatically revert to a screen saver. When the user returns to his or her computer, a password will be required to unlock the screensaver.
As a Department of Defense organization, DoDEA faces the reality that there is a potential to be subject to cyber attack every single day. While DoDEA's mission is not directly related to national security, the agency is interconnected to the military networks in various ways.
While passwords and screensavers may seem like small changes, these measures exponentially improve cyber-security for the worldwide DoDEA system. DoDEA reminds its employees and customers to never take security for granted and that everyone has a responsibility for computer security.
For answers to specific questions or concerns about the changes, contact DoDEA CIO Jeff Friedler at jeffrey.friedler@hq.dodea.edu.
