*Pages 1--3 from Microsoft Word - 23538.doc* NEWS Federal Communications Commission 445 12 th Street, S. W. Washington, D. C. 20554 This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action. Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action. See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D. C. Circ 1974). News Media Information 202 / 418- 0500 Internet: http:// www. fcc. gov TTY: 1- 888- 835- 5322 For Immediate Release News Media Contacts: December 6, 2002 FCC: Robin Pence (202) 418- 0505 Qwest: Vince Hancock (303) 965- 6950 HOMELAND SECURITY: COMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY CONSIDERS MEASURES TO PROTECT NATION’S COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES AGAINST ATTACK Washington, D. C. – Representatives from across the communications industry came together today to consider recommendations to protect and strengthen the nation’s communications infrastructure against terrorist attacks or national disasters. The measures were considered by the Network Reliability and Interoperability Council (NRIC) VI which held its quarterly meeting today at the FCC. NRIC is composed of representatives from the telecommunications, cable, wireless, satellite and ISP industries. The 56- member Council will review some 300 best practices – many of which are currently being practiced by industry members – for widespread adoption and implementation across the industry. Best practices range from increasing physical security at communications facilities to process changes and training to increased protection of proprietary information. NRIC members have until December 20, 2002 to vote on recommendations to the industry that these best practices voluntarily be implemented. FCC Chairman Michael Powell said, “Homeland Security is a critical issue that touches every consumer in America. People want to know that in an emergency their calls will go through and they can reach loved ones. Every bit as important, our nation’s communications network must be secure and protected to ensure that public safety, health, and law enforcement officials are able to respond and ensure the flow of information.” Richard C. Notebaert, NRIC chairman and chairman and CEO of Qwest Communications International, said, "Today's meeting illustrates the industry commitment to work together and share best practices in an effort to improve network reliability and strengthen the nation's communications network against terrorist attacks and natural disasters." “The telecommunications industry has taken a leadership role in proactively identifying and protecting our nation’s communications infrastructure. Many of the best practices we have heard today are actively being implemented by many companies. I strongly urge the industry to adopt as many of these Best Practices as appropriate to ensure the protection and reliability of our nation’s communications system,” Powell continued. 1 1