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Scott, 375th CS will be inspected

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Amber R. Kelly-Herard
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Scott Air Force Base will undergo a Command Cyber Readiness Inspection April 2-6.

In preparation for the inspection a new Secret Internet Protocol Router Network, or SIPRNet, Uptime Policy has been implemented to allow the squadron to push patches and mitigate vulnerabilities.

Second Lt. Thomas Shew, 375th CS Cyber Control Flight deputy commander, said, "When a SIPRNet computer is turned on the system center configuration manager checks in with the server and downloads required patches to mitigate vulnerabilities. Those systems that don't get turned on never get fixed and lead to a high vulnerability to computer ratio."

In the past, the 375th Communication Squadron has found vulnerabilities on the SIPRNet system.

"To a hacker, those are things they could use to access our computers," said Shew. "Poor network security leads to poor mission assurance."

While the SIPRNet machine is being patched, it should be seamless to the user.

"If a patch requires the computer to reboot, then the user will have to restart, but those are few and far between," said Shew.

Other actions that can be done to prepare for the inspection include physical security such as locking the SIPRNet hard drive and not having a SIPRNet computer facing a window. Users need to also remember to remove their Common Access Cards when walking away from their workstations.

The 375th CS is also trying to prepare as much as possible.

"We are inspecting all classified areas on base with the assistance of the Wing Information Protection Office, we updated the SIPRNet uptime policy and we're in the process of replacing all SIPRNet computers because newer computers with newer operating systems have less vulnerabilities," said Shew.

Those who do not comply with the new policy will automatically be disconnected from the network. To regain access requires a memo from an 0-6 or equivalent within the member's chain of command.

"We need everyone's cooperation so we can ensure all our classified networks are secure and up to date. Compliance is required to remain on the network. Our team is working with all the unit Client Support Administrators to achieve compliance," said Shew

The 375th CS does not expect a change in customer service during this inspection.

For more information, call 256-5884.