IA: AF first line defense Published Dec. 1, 2010 By Airman Whitney Tucker 36th Wing Public Affairs ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- According to Department of Defense Directive 8500.1, information assurance consists of measures that protect and defend information and information systems by ensuring their availability, integrity, authentication and confidentiality. This includes providing for the restoration of systems by incorporating protection, detection and reaction capabilities. During the upcoming Command Cyber Readiness Inspection, the ability of each Andersen servicemember to uphold these IA standards will be examined and put to the test. "The CCRI is designed to measure our capability to defend and protect the Air Force network," said Senior Airman Douglas McNeil, 36th Communications Squadron information assurance manager. "The network is one of our most valuable assets. It contains a wealth of information that, if leaked, could seriously hinder our ability to do our jobs." In order to be successful during the inspection, Airmen must have an understanding and be mindful of procedures and policies regarding the safekeeping of files, e-mail and information on the network. "Realistically, many users are not knowledgeable about reporting procedures," Airman McNeil said. "It is likely that Team Andersen members will be quizzed during the CCRI on how to properly report viruses and incidents. Also, DoD IA training could be fair game for quizzing and it is important that users pay attention to the course. Furthermore, some of the most common IA infractions we see involve common access cards. Individuals write passwords down, tell others their passwords or leave their card unattended which can grant unauthorized access to Air Force information." Protecting the network is vital to the security and success of the Air Force mission. Ensuring information used to guarantee the smooth conductivity of operations and safety of Airmen does not fall into the wrong hands is a responsibility that rests solely on the shoulders of users. "If our network is compromised, we cannot complete our mission," Airman McNeil said. "We use computers every day. All vital information is stored on the network and it is each of our job to do our part to protect it. Making sure our computers are safe and secure is one way we can all have a part in seeing the Air Force mission through." The CCRI is scheduled to take place Jan. 10 to 14. In order to stay sharp on IA regulations, keep an eye out for IA blitz messages sent out weekly through the Communications Focal Point.