Ramstein/KMC Readies for Information Assurance Awareness Program Inspection Published May 5, 2010 By Senior Master Sgt. Brian Curtis 86th Communications Squadron RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany -- Preparations continue at Ramstein Air Base for the upcoming Information Assurance Awareness Program inspection taking place June 14th through July 2nd. Every organization of Team Ramstein/KMC plays an integral part in the success of the inspection. As the United States Air Force relies more and more on computers and networks to conduct our daily business, it becomes increasingly critical to ensure these systems are safe and secure at all times. Recently, General Norton A. Schwartz, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, sent out an email to the entire Air Force community stressing how our Cyber Operations reinforce and enable everything we do - from administrative functions to combat operations. With this increased reliance on technology comes increased pressure to prevent attacks on our networks. The inspection includes computer security, emissions security, communications security, telecommunications monitoring as well as certification and accreditation to ensure all systems utilized on Department of Defense networks have valid authorization. In addition to reviewing the 86th Communications Squadron Information Assurance and COMSEC programs, the inspection team will visit at least 30 percent of the unit Information Assurance Officers from across the base. In preparation for the upcoming inspection, the Wing Information Assurance Office, in conjunction with unit information assurance officers, have been conducting self inspections on all agencies on the installation. "The IAOs in each organization on Ramstein play a key part in the success of this inspection" said Lt Col Steve Sweeney, Commander of the 86th Communications Squadron. "Ramstein has 220 IAOs assigned to every unit on the installation who work closely with the Wing IA Professionals and perform day to day administrative oversight for their organization. Knowing who your IAO is and supporting them in maintaining network security goes a long way toward receiving a passing rating." As a user of base information systems, you too can make sure you are prepared by practicing a few simple security actions, such as removing your common access card and locking your workstation when you leave, eliminating the use of thumb drives, using "Privacy Act" cover sheets, and knowing virus reporting procedures. Please contact you unit IAO with any questions on this very important program.