Homeland Security and Microsoft Software

Homeland Security Department to buy Microsoft software. Microsoft will supply software for both desktops and servers within DHS, including Windows XP, Office XP, Microsoft Project, Microsoft Exchange and Windows Server 2003. [Computerworld News]

No $$$ for TIA
Did I miss something?  Why am I learning of this from the BBC and not NYT, et al?

US snooping plan blocked. The US Senate blocks funding for a computer surveillance project that would comb through personal records. [BBC News | Technology | UK Edition]

Justice Department investigates abuse of Patriot Act
 
34 claims out of 1,000 claims filed are said to have merit.  According to the Justice Department.  Athens article misses fact that 431 complaints were dismissed as lying outside the jurisdiction of the department’s inspector general (wired).

From Frist to grist...

RIAA Picks a New Chief. The recording industry chooses a new CEO to replace Hilary Rosen. Mitch Bainwol, former chief of staff to Sen. Bill Frist, will take the reins in September. By Katie Dean. [Wired News]

Untrusted Computing.

NSA wants Congress to authorize a think tank to create tools to analyze software for security flaws, backdoors, etc.  Article

How CALEA helps those that help themselves.

Robert X. Cringely: Shooting Ourselves in the Foot: Grandiose Schemes for Electronic Eavesdropping May Hurt More Than They Help. What you say. [Hack the Planet]

And you think you have no responsibilities now?

Cybersecurity chairman: Infosec mandates may be needed. WASHINGTON -- A top Republican congressman with jurisdiction over cybersecurity says it may be time to require private industry to protect its slice of cyberspace from attack. [InfoWorld: Top News]

Two Articles
 
The first discusses how much money is not being sent to pay for the requirements imposed by Homeland Security.
 
The second discusses the dog and pony shows that Ashcroft is requiring all his US Attorneys to perform.
 
Georgia deserves 9/11 money.  Macon
Crowd vents concerns about Patriot Act.  Macon

Some events worth noting
Are found at IP3.   Especially the seminar on e-voting and the Patriot Act.

IT leaders question US cybersecurity mandates. WASHINGTON - U.S. companies need to work together to improve their cybersecurity before a major cyberattack prompts the U.S. Congress to pass hasty legislation, the chairman of a cybersecurity-focused House subcommittee told IT industry leaders Tuesday. [InfoWorld: Top News]