Seoul, Korea, Nov. 4, 2003 — Microsoft and the Korea Information Security Agency (KISA) today announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), with a shared objective of improving the security of software, raising security awareness and addressing cyber threats.
“At a time when computer crime is increasing in frequency and severity around the world, we are happy to partner with Microsoft to address this important issue,” said Changkon Kim, President of KISA. “By working together, we hope to improve computer security readiness and awareness throughout Korea.”
“Improving the security and trustworthiness of the computing environment and helping our customers throughout the world protect themselves from malicious computer attacks is a top priority for Microsoft,” said Scott Charney, Chief Security Strategist at Microsoft. He added that “Korea has a very developed IT infrastructure and is one of the most wired societies in the world. For that reason, computer security is a particularly high priority for Korean consumers and for the government, and we are pleased to partner with KISA to help further raise security awareness in Korea.”
KISA and Microsoft recognize that consumers are increasingly faced with a variety of cyber threats and have agreed to partner in addressing complex problems associated with computer security and computer-related crime. The MOU provides a framework for such cooperation, focusing on addressing potential vulnerabilities in software, fostering rigorous security-training, supporting a new Center for Analyzing Software Vulnerabilities, facilitating information sharing, and containing the growing spam problem. Highlights include:
-
Addressing Potential Software Vulnerabilities : Cyber-criminals will continue to exploit potential vulnerabilities in computer software to launch malicious, criminal attacks that interfere with computer systems. Consistent with its efforts around the world, Microsoft will work with KISA to continue to ensure the rapid disclosure of potential software vulnerabilities and the timely release of patches, to assist KISA in addressing computer-related attacks associated with such vulnerabilities. Using this information, KISA will develop guidelines for ISPs, business users and individuals to help minimize the spread of attacks across the Internet.
-
Training : Microsoft and KISA will team up to provide training for employees of KISA and major ISPs in Korea to enhance their level of knowledge and skills in computer security. In addition, KISA and Microsoft are expected to hold joint seminars on major policy issues relating to security and privacy.
-
Center for Analyzing Software Vulnerabilities . Microsoft will provide assistance in the operation of KISA’s Center for Analyzing Software Vulnerabilities, which is expected to open in Seoul by KISA. Microsoft will provide software and debugging tools as well as personnel to assist KISA in its efforts.
-
Information Sharing : Microsoft and KISA will share information on security management to the fullest extent practicable.
-
Anti-spam . KISA and Microsoft will work together to identify solutions to decrease the volume of spam affecting Korea’s computer users.
About Korea Information Security Agency
The Korea Information Security Agency was established by the Information Facilitation Act No. 14 in April, 1996 with the aim of establishing a safe and reliable information society through the development and support of information security related technology, as well as in-depth policy research on enhancing information security.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and Internet technologies for personal and business computing. The company offers a wide range of products and services designed to empower people through great software — any time, any place and on any device.
Note to editors: If you are interested in viewing additional information on Microsoft, please visit the Microsoft Web page at http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/ on Microsoft’s corporate information pages. Web links, telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of publication, but may since have changed. For additional assistance, journalists and analysts may contact Microsoft’s Rapid Response Team or other appropriate contacts listed at http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/contactpr.asp .
