FBI to deploy PKI for systems access
FBI to deploy PKI for systems access
- By Wilson P. Dizard III
- Oct 21, 2003
The FBI will use Entrust Inc. public-key infrastructure tools to authenticate users before they are allowed access to bureau systems.
The bureau is buying the PKI tools from the Dallas company through a subcontract awarded by FBI contractor Northrop Grumman Inc. The FBI also will use the PKI technology to encrypt data and electronically sign documents, Entrust officials said.
The bureau's Security Division is deploying PKI as part of the bureau plan to create layered security [see
story.
The contract calls for Entrust to deploy PKI security for 50,000 law enforcement personnel in the United States and abroad, the company said. Northrop Grumman and Entrust are working with PEC Solutions Inc. of Fairfax, Va., and Schlumberger Ltd. of New York on the project.
An Entrust spokesman declined to release the amount of the contract, and the FBI did not immediately respond to an inquiry.