    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (2000, Book I)]
    [March 3, 2000]
    [Page 371]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 371]]

    Memorandum on Action by Federal Agencies To Safeguard Against Internet
    Attacks
    March 3, 2000

    Memorandum for the Heads of Executive Departments and Agencies

    Subject: Action by Federal Agencies to Safeguard Against Internet
    Attacks

        America and the world have benefited tremendously from the amazing
    advances we have seen with the Internet and computer technology. But
    with every new technological advance there are new challenges, and we
    must meet them--both Government and the private sector--in partnership.
        Following recent Internet disruptions, I met with experts and
    leaders of the information technology industry so we could work together
    to maximize the promise of the Internet, while minimizing the risks.
    These Internet disruptions highlight how important computer networks
    have become to our daily lives; and how vulnerabilities can create risks
    for all--including the Federal Government.
        Accordingly, I ask that each Cabinet Secretary and agency head renew
    their efforts to safeguard their department or agency's computer systems
    against denial-of-service attacks on the Internet. Within legal and
    administrative limits, attention should also be paid to contractors
    providing services. The Federal Computer Incident Response Center
    (FEDCirc) and the National Infrastructure Protection Center (NIPC) have
    available software tools to assist you in these efforts.
        I have asked my Chief of Staff, John Podesta, to coordinate a review of Federal Government
    vulnerabilities in this regard and to report back to me by April 1.

                                                          William J. Clinton