22 Jun 11. Lockheed Martin and its Cyber Security Alliance partners today released a study revealing security remains the single biggest concern on the minds of government information technology decision-makers when it comes to cloud computing. Despite these security concerns, 50% are now considering cloud applications for their agencies, versus only 12% a year ago. Two-thirds of participants cited securityas the most important element in their evaluations. At the same time, those more familiar with cloud computing are more than twice as likely to trust it, 57 percent versus 24 percent. Concerns about security are not the only obstacle holding back federal agencies from moving to the cloud. At least three-quarters of participants identified dependability, availability, and the ability to continue using existing applications as elements that cloud based solutions must address. Meanwhile, more than one-quarter of participants identified mission-critical data management, procurement, and financial management systems as applications they would never consider moving to the cloud. The study funded by the Lockheed Martin Cyber Security Alliance and conducted by Market Connections, included in-depth interviews and an online survey. It explored comfort levels, cloud engagement, elements of importance and plans for cloud application migration among U.S. federal government, defense/military, and intelligence agency technology decision-makers and IT contractors serving the federal government. Study findings reflect input from 196 participants from all military branches and a variety of federal civilian agencies.

29 Jun 11. Energy Networks Association (ENA) published an independent report by respected international consultants KEMA into Smart Grid Cyber Security. The report, commissioned by ENA for the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) considered how government and networks should develop a strategy to secure the future UK electricity infrastructure together. The report comes just weeks before a newly formed taskforce will bring together the energy networks and government’s security advisers to discuss how the future influx of IT and communications on the grid will be protected. The report found that although plans for distribution network operators and Government are rigorous, a more coherent and joined-up approach is needed to meet concerns of the future. Energy Minister Charles Hendry said, “The UK is taking action now, investing in smart grid development and planning for the future. I am grateful to the ENA for this report which I am sure will prove to be an important contribution to making sure our electricity grid infrastructure remains secure. We will study its recommendations carefully. The Government will shortly publish a high level strategy for the development of the smart grid as part of the forthcoming White Paper on electricity market reform.”
Energy Networks Association Chief Executive David Smith said, “In the future, our energy networks will be smarter and more complex to ensure we provide for the diverse nature of our energy generation and consumption. However, this presents additional vulnerability. Through a coordinated approach to cyber security we can ensure the lower carbon future of our energy networks with their greater communication is secure and robust. As well as addressing risk assessments with government, the networks will deliver improved technology and have dedicated resource as part of the development of a Smart Grid. This cannot sit in isolation, however, and we are keen to work with government so that cyber security is not a sub-project but reflects the risks posed to critical infrastructure we depend upon so much.” The Full Report is available from BATTLESPACE, please email us.

23 Jun 11. Police dealing with digital crimes have notified NATO of a probable data breach from a NATO-related website operated by an external company. NATO’s e-Bookshop is a separate service for the public