U.S. anti-terrorism network enables data sharing.

• Author: Swartz, Nikki
• Position: Up front: news, trends & analysis - Brief Article

Hundreds of federal, state, and local intelligence and law enforcement agencies will soon be able to share threat reports, investigative leads, and potential evidence instantaneously under the Homeland Security Information Network, a new counter-terrorism computer system launched by the U.S. government as part of a sweeping data-sharing policy adopted by federal authorities.

The Internet-based secure network is designed to prevent acts of terror and to give local police chiefs, mayors, and governors greater access to federal intelligence. According to a New York Times report, when the first phase is completed this summer, the network will provide a real-time instant messaging, e-mail, and live chat service for 5,000 authorized users across 300 agencies in all U.S. states, five territories, and 50 urban areas. Users with proper security clearances and...