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Thursday, January 10, 2008

Recent Occurrences Have City, County Stepping Up Computer Security Measures

   Recent occurrences involving government computer systems have prompted local county and city officials to step up security measures where those governments’ data bases are concerned.

   During an incident reported in Davidson County, officials with the county’s Election Commission reported that two laptop computers had been stolen, containing personal information on approximately 337,000 individuals. Authorities warned that this incident had the potential to expose these individuals to identity theft.

   In Lawrence County, officials report that thieves busted out two patio doors leading into the rear of the county’s Accounts and Budget office on Centennial Boulevard on Tuesday. It appeared that the perpetrator attempted to steal one of the computers. When the device was unplugged, an alarm sounded that apparently scared away the would-be thief. Nothing appeared to be missing from the office.

   Since the incident, County Executive Paul Rosson said, the two glass doors have been replaced with metal doors. In addition, a security system has been installed.

   Citing these two incidents, Mayor Keith Durham recommended during a meeting of the Lawrenceburg Board of Mayor and Commissioners Thursday that the city, too, increase security measures. Durham explained that he has asked employee John Sanders to procure a room in which the city’s server may be secured.

   City Administrator William McLain explained that Sanders is considering constructing a secure room beneath a stairway in the basement of city hall. This, he said, would be inexpensive since there are already three of the necessary walls in place. In addition, he pointed out that in the event of a tornado or other natural disaster the system would be situated in a more secure location.

   In addition, McLain explained that they plan to install a security system that would allow them to track individuals who come into contact with the system.

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