USPS OIG Review of Network Perimeter Firewalls

Our objective was to determine whether the network perimeter firewalls are properly configured and functioning to safeguard information technology (IT) according to Postal Service standards and industry best practices. Perimeter firewalls are the first line of defense of an organization’s IT network. They are essential components for detecting and protecting the network by blocking unnecessary…

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USPS readies ACE computer upgrades

The Postal Service is preparing to upgrade all ACE computers. The rollout, called USPS Next, is scheduled to begin in late summer or early fall, near the end of the fiscal year. It will take about four years to upgrade all computers. Upgraded computers will feature improved processors, faster boot-ups and better stability. To prepare for…

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USPS OIG: Review of Selected Active Directory Domains

Background The U.S. Postal Service uses Microsoft’s Active Directory (AD) to control access to more than 192,000 information resources managed by 183 domains on the Postal Service information technology (IT) network. Users can access systems and services through AD once they enter a user name and password. Administrators use AD to set up and manage…

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USPS OIG Audit Report: Hardware Inventory Management-Greater Boston District

Background An effective asset management process actively manages all hardware devices on a network, so that only authorized devices have network access, and allows for quick response to security events. Asset management consists of maintaining inventory, tracking assets, and updating records. The U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General’s (OIG) Information Technology (IT) Security Risk…

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USPS: Social media security

Think twice before posting inflammatory messages or inappropriate photos online, particularly on social media sites, the Postal Service’s Corporate Information Security Office (CISO) advises. Postings could remain on sites for years and hurt your reputation. “It’s important to remember that once posted and shared on social media sites and the Internet, information is almost impossible…

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USPS: Fast lane – USPS uses Agile to speed up technology development

The Postal Service has joined a growing number of government agencies and private organizations that use Agile, a collaborative process that allows projects to roll out faster and with fewer glitches. Through Agile, organizations develop, test and assess technology projects in increments, then implement the projects for short durations before full deployment. “Agile allows greater…

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