Google to Enlist NSA to Help It Ward Off Cyberattacks

Google and the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) are collaborating to fortify defenses against future cyberattacks. NSA will assist Google in studying an assault that allegedly originated in China and targeted Google's computer networks. The agreement also calls for NSA to aid Google in understanding whether it is deploying the proper security measures by assessing vulnerabilities in hardware and software and to calibrate the adversary's level of sophistication.

Sources say the partnership will permit the two organizations to exchange crucial data without breaching Google's policies or statutes that shield the privacy of U.S. citizens' online communications.

NSA also reportedly is reaching out to other government agencies that play major cybersecurity roles and might be able to assist in the Google probe. "As a general matter, as part of its information-assurance mission, NSA works with a broad range of commercial partners and research associates to ensure the availability of secure tailored solutions for Department of Defense and national security systems customers," says NSA's Judi Emmel.

From The Washington Post
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