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DHS Offering Free Vulnerability Scans, Penetration Tests (krebsonsecurity.com)

Posted by timothy on from the from-government-here-to-help dept.

tsu doh nimh writes: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been quietly launching stealthy cyber attacks against a range of private U.S. companies -- mostly banks and energy firms. These digital intrusion attempts, commissioned in advance by the private sector targets themselves, are part of a little-known program at DHS designed to help 'critical infrastructure' companies shore up their computer and network defenses against real-world adversaries. And it's all free of charge (well, on the U.S. taxpayer's dime). Brian Krebs examines some of the pros and cons, and the story has some interesting feedback from some banks and others who have apparently taken DHS up on its offer.

3 of 79 comments (clear)

  1. The TSA does this every day by mveloso · · Score: 3, Funny

    Most people don't enjoy the TSA scans and penetration tests, but I guess different strokes for different folks.

  2. It's a trap! by Nidi62 · · Score: 5, Funny

    The newest scam call: (cue heavy Russian accent)"Hello, my name is Steven. I am calling from the Department of your Homeland Security and am definitely not former KGB agent. For limited time only we are offering free computer vulnerability scans and identity theft testing. Please give us your computer login credentials and bank information that we may begin our testing."(end heavy Russian accent)

    --
    The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for it to be pitted against a slightly greater evil
    1. Re:It's a trap! by DoofusOfDeath · · Score: 5, Funny

      (end heavy Russian accent)

      Glad you remembered closing tag. Otherwise rest of comments would also have Russian accent.