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TSA to Contractors - Encrypt Your Laptops

Posted by Zonk on from the probably-a-good-idea dept.

eweekhickins writes "After two laptops were lost containing the personal data of 3,900+ truckers who handle HAZMATs, the Transportation Security Administration has ordered its contractors to encrypt any and all data. 'After the second theft or loss, the TSA conducted an IT forensic investigation that ascertained that the (previously) deleted information could be retrieved if a thief had the proper training. "So even though [there's only a] small chance of [the data being misused], we did notify all affected individuals and advised them of what steps to take to protect themselves, and we mandated that contractors need to encrypt any and all data in addition to any deletion procedures that might be in place," Davis said.'"

5 of 132 comments (clear)

  1. Overheard conversation by postbigbang · · Score: 5, Funny

    "No, not the keys to the truck and trailer, I need the damn keys to the laptop!"

    --
    ---- Teach Peace. It's Cheaper Than War.
  2. Encrypting Personal Information by Dragonslicer · · Score: 2, Funny

    After two laptops were lost containing the personal data... we mandated that contractors need to encrypt any and all data Is there anything to say besides "Duh"?
  3. Don't forget! by suv4x4 · · Score: 2, Funny

    Always put the password somewhere near your laptops in case you forget it. Security is aight, but there's nothing worse than forgetting your password!

  4. Re:It's always sad by Chris+Mattern · · Score: 4, Funny

    If they could actually take retroactive measures, they'd be much happier. "Johnson, I need to secure that data so that it didn't get stolen three days ago!"

    Chris Mattern

  5. Re:Not enough by moderatorrater · · Score: 2, Funny

    This is one of the many reasons I haven't set foot in an airport since 9/11. Let me guess, another is that your hat sets off the metal detector?