Office of Management and Budget Director Jacob Lew issued Friday a memo to agencies that outlined the minimum security guidelines for implementing the Telework Enhancement Act of 2010.
The memo urged agencies to ensure that cybersecurity protections for information and information systems are used while teleworking.
In the memo, Lew stated that telework “provides federal employees the ability to continue working during inclement weather, emergencies or situations that may disrupt normal operations.” However, he urged that adequate security measures must be implemented.
“Telework is only as effective as the technologies used to support it, which is why it is critical for agencies to take immediate action to ensure that their employees are properly equipped,” he said.
According to OMB, agencies are expected to implement security telework policies to best suit their unique needs. The memo includes guidelines and minimum requirements agencies must address.
Some of these guidelines include controlling access to information systems, protecting agency information and safeguarding wireless and other telecommunications abilities.
The memo also included instructions for agencies to follow security guidelines set out by OMB, the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the Department of Homeland Security.
