Computer security: Everyone's responsibility to help protect Air Force networks from harm

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Stephanie Vidal and Mrs. Audrey Dubay
  • 62nd Communications Squadron
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Have you ever considered what role Computer Security (COMPUSEC) has in the success of McChord's mission? Worldwide Air Force operations increasingly rely on the smooth transfer of information across Air Force networks. 

These networks have become just as important to mission success as the technology used in more traditional Air Force weapons systems. Just as you would be leery of allowing unauthorized personnel to have access to a C-17 Globemaster III, you should be concerned with preventing unauthorized personnel from accessing our networks. Proper computer security practices mitigate the number and severity of threats to our networks. 

What threats can lead to the risk of unauthorized access to our networks? With the increased operations tempo, people are generally more concerned with getting the job done rather than applying important security principles. Have you seen coworkers bring USB (thumb) drives from home, and not run antivirus prior to putting them on the network? Have you seen someone walk away from their computer and leave their Common Access Card in the reader? Or, have you seen a co-worker write down a password and store it under their key board? If so, you have witnessed activities that could potentially leave gaping holes in our network ready to be exploited by our enemies. 

Each of these is a type of threat, that when exploited is capable of causing extensive damage to government information whether through a virus or unauthorized access. 

A common Information Assurance (IA) principle that applies to our network is "a risk accepted by one is a risk imposed on all". As you perform your duties, remember the importance of practicing computer security and report any threats to our networks to your Wing Information Assurance Office. Don't be the person whose actions (or inaction) threaten an Air Force resource that is just as vital to accomplishing our mission as the most sophisticated military weapon system.