Enter the National Cyber Alert System One of the newest
“systems” on the government block is the early warning system
that alerts those in the know to potential Internet risks. It is
not only timely, but also much needed. With the rampant use of
Web-based applications and computer networks, government
agencies, and those doing business with them, need to be alert
to such security risks. Part of this is due to the government
being a high-level target for terrorism, including cyber-
terrorism. Hackers are commonplace and their wrath has been felt
across the board. Additionally, serious threats such as the
Slammer and Blaster worms make everyone nervous. Cyber attacks
do more than just slow down networks and suspend e-mail. When
systems go down, business generally comes to a standstill,
resulting in a loss of productivity and revenue. Such
detrimental occurences sting, whether you operate in the public
or private sector. The system is known as the National Cyber
Alert System and was unveiled on Jan. 28, 2004. US-