New Tool for COMSEC (Communications Security)

• NCJ Number: 115389
• Journal: Security Management Volume: 33 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1989) Pages: 35,37
• Author(s): R G Schwalls
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 2 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The Secure Telephone Unit - third generation (STU-III) developed by the National Security Agency (NSA) is a convenient, affordable telephone that counters the threat of leakage of sensitive and unclassified information over nonsecure telecommunications circuits.

Abstract

The Defense Industrial Security Program now faces the challenge of incorporating this new technology into its security systems as rapidly as possible. NSA and the Defense Investigative Service have also developed a new appendix to the Industrial Security Manual so that contractor facilities can establish the controls necessary to protect classified information before, during, and after transmission. Contractors will also have to include plans and procedures for STU-III use into their standard practice procedures. Users also need training in equipment operation and associated security procedures for both the units and the crypto ignition keys. Terminals will also need physical protection, and safeguarding of FAX of automated information system transmissions are also required.