Federal lawsuit awaits if cybersecurity researchers skip antivirus software

August 26, 2024
1 min read


TLDR:

  • Georgia Tech cybersecurity lab accused of fraud by US government for failing to follow security protocols
  • Lab head opposed installing antivirus software on machines storing controlled unclassified information

In a recent lawsuit, the US government has accused Georgia Tech and Dr. Emmanouil “Manos” Antonakakis of fraud for not adhering to basic security protocols while handling Department of Defense research projects. Despite being required to install antivirus software on machines storing controlled unclassified information, Dr. Antonakakis reportedly opposed this requirement, deeming it unnecessary. This led to the lab being noncompliant with NIST Special Publication 800–171 rules. After invoices were suspended due to noncompliance, the lab eventually installed antivirus software. However, the government claims that the school filed numerous invoices while aware of their noncompliance, leading to allegations of fraud.

Overall, the case highlights the importance of following security protocols, especially when handling sensitive government projects. It also underscores the potential consequences of not adhering to these rules, including accusations of fraud and jeopardizing the value of research funded by government agencies.


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