GAO Warns Security Gaps Leave EPA's Network Vulnerable.

Chemical Market Reporter, January, 2000 by HESS, GLENN

SIGNIFICANT SECURITY FLAWS have left Environmental Protection Agency's computer network open to attack by hackers, who could access and manipulate the agency's most sensitive information systems, congressional investigators warn.

EPA's computers contain extensive data, including companies' trade secrets and worst-case disaster scenarios for chemical plants, detailing the possible consequences of accidents and terrorist attacks.

The General Accounting Office, the investigative arm of Congress, found computer vulnerabilities at EPA that are so serious, it cautioned the agency immediately, even though the inquiry is months away from completion.

"These weaknesses pose a serious threat to the integrity of EPA's information systems and, if...

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