Officials to get tough on unauthorized network devices

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The Air Force Academy's 10th Communications Squadron announced Aug. 30, 2012, that it would begin cracking down on users who violate network policy on USB flash drives. (Original image/Nebraska Library Commission)
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Officials to get tough on unauthorized network devices

Posted 9/6/2012 Updated 9/6/2012

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by Don Branum
Air Force Academy Public Affairs

9/6/2012 - U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- The 10th Communications Squadron will clamp down on restrictions against connecting privately- owned devices to the Academy's computer networks beginning Oct. 1, 10th Mission Support Group officials announced Aug. 30.

Even connecting a personal device to a computer to charge it "poses a tremendous threat to the security" of the Academy's computer networks, according to guidance approved by 10th MSG Commander Col. Michael Addison Jr.

Individuals who attach devices such as personal computers, tablets, cell phones, music players or gaming systems will immediately lose their network access, according to official Academy policy. They will have to complete additional information assurance training, and their commanders or directors must request reinstatement of their network privileges. Officially approved cadet-owned computers are authorized on the Academy's networks.

Individuals who violate the policy may also have their devices seized or erased and may face either disciplinary action under the Uniform Code of Military Justice or adverse civilian disciplinary action.

Cadets may use non-flash removable media such as external hard drives with their approved, personally owned computers, but must ensure their antivirus software is up-to-date and must scan all removable media prior to use.

Flash drives may not be used on government systems unless they meet stringent requirements set by U.S. Cyber Command. Information on the requirements is listed in Academy Guidance Memorandum 33-02, "USAFA Information Technology Enterprise Use," available online at http://1.usa.gov/R3yTBq.

Government-owned external hard drives are acceptable for use on the Academy's computer networks, but other devices such as digital cameras must be preapproved by the Academy's designated approval authority. For more information, contact your unit information assurance officer, the 10th Air Base Wing IA office at 333-9880 or the Communications Focal Point at 333-4357.