Improving public switched network security in an open environment

Government studies have identified potential vulnerabilities in the public switched network that could be exploited by hostile users. As the telecommunications industry moves toward greater openness and more services are added, the potential for abuse is likely to increase. The US government´s efforts to maintain the integrity of telecommunications services in this new open environment are summarized. The authors outline major government concerns and describe how federal agencies are responding. Key elements of the response include cooperation between government and industry, additional research and development, and an emphasis on building secure systems using open system software.<>