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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2001

Department of Interior Press Secretary Mark Pfeifle released this statement regarding Special Master's report on computer security breaches. December 4, 2001.

"The Department of the Interior acknowledges problems exist in the individual Indian accounting management system. We are quickly taking the necessary steps to secure and protect the system.

"A Special Master tasked by the court tested the integrity of key trust computer systems. Shortly after the Interior Department was notified that the system was entered, the department hired the same experts that the Special Master used to test the system. These experts know where the challenges exist, and are the best source to fix the situation and protect account holders assets.

"The department is working aggressively to eliminate the most significant concerns identified in the report to ensure the integrity of the system.

"The Interior Department remains committed to trust reform. Since taking the helm on Jan. 31, 2001, Secretary Norton moved on several fronts to improve the Indian trust program. She created the Office of Historical Trust Accounting to address the requirements to provide historical reconciliation of individual Indian money accounts.

"The department also commissioned EDS Inc., a widely respected independent consulting firm, to study the department's trust management program. This study provided the additional support for Secretary Norton's recent decision to propose a plan to reorganize the department's Indian trust program. The proposed plan will consolidate Indian trust responsibilities into a new departmental organization.

"Such progress is evidence of the department's commitment and determination to resolve the Indian trust issue."

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Report reveals attacks on tribal, Indian funds (12/5)