ABSTRACT
It is often said that “information is power.” This is true because information, correctly integrated, analyzed, and synthesized, leads to knowledge and informed decision-making. Today, the vast majority of the world’s information resides in, is derived from, and is exchanged among multiple automated systems. Critical decisions are made (to place an order to buy or sell stocks) and critical actions are taken (to administer a transfusion of a certain blood type, or to change runways during a landing) based on information from these systems. For information to become power, the information must be accurate, correct, and timely, and be presented, manipulated, stored, retrieved, and exchanged safely, reliably, and securely. Information assurance (IA) is the enabler of this power.
