GAO recommends increased computer security at debt agency
A General Accounting Office report issued last Friday said the Bureau of Public Debt needs to increase computer security in its automated financial systems.
As part of an annual audit, GAO reviewed computer controls for bureau systems related to Treasury securities, interest payments, and financial reports to the public and the federal government.
While GAO said the bureau's overall computer controls are effective and enable the agency to report and retain reliable data, it also identified "general control vulnerabilities" in the "structure, policies, and procedures" related to overall computer operations.
GAO said some simple changes in computer procedures could alleviate vulnerabilities. Among other recommendations, it said the bureau should implement stronger controls to verify that workers who need to access databases and sensitive files are authorized to do so.
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