Dismissal of security expert adds fuel to Internet debate

Article Abstract:

Silicon Graphics Inc is letting go of Dan Farmer, the network security manager who developed a network security software called Satan and plans to distribute it free to users of the Internet. The company is concerned over liability issues, given the fact that the Satan program is a capable analytical tool that is able to spot the flaws in a company's network security system. The concern is that Satan might fall into the wrong hands and be used in destructive or larcenous ways by unscrupulous parties. At the same time, as Farmer's defenders point out, the Satan issue is also one which involves the Internet tradition of an unfettered flow of information through cyberspace. The problem is that if a program such as Satan is repressed, flaws may go undiscovered, whereas if it is widely distributed, it may be used for illicit purposes. Silicon Graphics has reportedly offered Farmer a severance package and Farmer himself feels confident he will find another position within the computer software industry.

Computer software industry, Software industry, Laws, regulations and rules, Human resource management, Silicon Graphics Inc., SGI, Network security software, Data security, Data security issue

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Hacker case underscores Internet's vulnerability

Article Abstract:

Managers of the California-based online service known as the Well confronted data security issues that may soon be common to all computer networks during the final hours of an FBI investigation leading to the arrest of alleged computer criminal Kevin D. Mitnick. Prior to his capture on Feb 15, 1995 in Raleigh, NC, Mitnick executed some apparently unintentional keystrokes that obliterated the Well's accounting records. Well officials had been participating in the FBI case, unbeknownst to their subscribers and were undecided about whether to shut down the Well or endure further invasions so that the FBI could close in on its suspect. The Well was offline for about two hours before its managers decided that they would not back down in the face of this electronic security threat and went back online. The ease with which Mitnick allegedly infiltrated the Internet raises important issues about online security and individual privacy.

On-Line Information Services, Communication services, not elsewhere classified, Home TV Data Service, Investigations, Crimes against, Information services, Computer crime, Computer crimes, Information services industry, United States. Federal Bureau of Investigation, Videotex systems

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Data network is found open to new threat

Article Abstract:

Government computer security officials have discovered that computer hackers are using new methods to penetrate the Internet network that links businesses, universities and government facilities around the world. The breach of security was discovered after a hacker penetrated a system belonging to a computer security expert and stole a number of data security applications. The new method of security breach is based on a flaw in the computer's security system that allows the intruder to enter the system disguised as a known or safe system user. Government agencies and companies linked to the Internet have believed that they were safe from security breaches by using a method of security called a firewall. The new method threatens to make obsolete this method of security and concerns security officials and users.

Reports, Access Methods

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