Tech

Biden's $1.67 trillion budget boosts tech, AI

The Biden administration’s FY2025 budget request provides agencies with $3 billion “to responsibly develop, test, procure and integrate transformative AI applications across the federal government.”

Government facilities were third largest ransomware target in 2023, FBI says

The FBI’s IC3 findings also show government official impersonation scams are on the rise.

How the procurement process can help agencies acquire responsible AI

Buying artificial intelligence is not just about setting new policies to manage emerging technology, but applying tried-and-true processes, one expert says.

IRS Direct File to be fully available March 12

The tool is a new way for eligible taxpayers to file directly with the IRS online for free.

FCC staff targeted in phishing attack that cloned agency login site

A cybercriminal group built a duplicate webpage used by employees to validate their login credentials.

Biden administration waives certain ‘Build America’ requirements for broadband

Even with the waiver, though, the administration estimates that roughly 90% of funding for equipment will still be used to purchase U.S.-made products.

Energy to fund 16 infrastructure cybersecurity projects 

The White House’s cybersecurity strategy implementation plan asks the agency to identify pilot projects for energy infrastructure security.

DOJ names its first chief AI officer

The new role is intended to focus on building a tech-ready workforce and interagency cooperation.

Feds preach vigilance amid multiple physical, cyber threats against election officials

In response, agencies as varied as CISA and the Postal Inspection Service are offering a slew of free and low-cost resources in a bid to help states and localities keep issues under control.

IRS opens up Direct File to the public

Interested taxpayers will have to watch the IRS website to see when the tool is open for new users.

Biden to sign executive order boosting cybersecurity of ports, maritime vessels

The order empowers the Coast Guard to shore up cyber protections for maritime systems and harden current cyber incident reporting rules.

USDA seeks fellows for its new digital service team

The tour-of-duty positions will “act as firefighters” to address pressing challenges across the Department of Agriculture, according to the agency’s CIO.

NSA cyber director to step down after 34 years of service

His departure comes amid heightened security fears in 2024 and debate over whether to renew a controversial spying power.

Lawmakers urge VA to tread carefully with AI

The Department of Veteran Affairs’ 2023 inventory of AI use cases listed 100 instances where VA is working to use emerging technologies, with at least 40 of those examples in an operational phase.

FTC cracks down on AI impersonation scammers

The Federal Trade Commission is looking to extend its authority to target fraudsters impersonating individuals in scams. The proposed rule covers the misuse of generative artificial intelligence and other technologies.

The Pentagon is notifying individuals affected by 2023 email data breach

The exposed contents were not secured with a password at the time of their compromise.

Commerce advisory committee urges government to boost startup access to talent and funding

Congress should fully fund the Economic Development Administration’s regional technology and innovation hubs program to help the U.S. tech sector maintain its global leadership, according to the committee.