A public key infrastructure would protect government data posted on the Internet from invasion, as do private sector efforts to implement simple, secure methods of authenticating users, especially in electronic commerce transactions. All the necessary pieces of the machinery are in place. Apparently the FTS vendors won't have a year 2000 problem of their own. Code embedded in switches and application code for various business functions such as for billing and receivables has already been upgraded, according to a spokesperson from one long-distance carrier. And make no mistake.
Transition is a complex and uncertain process.
Serious doubts exist about the government's ability to manage it while repairing systems for 2000. It's enough to ensure stability of existing programs that are being modified. Moreover, transition will be costly no matter when agencies do it, although the money ought to be available if special appropriations for year 2000 work come through under emergency spending. The Defense Department, excluding the armed forces, is the largest spender for telecommunications services, but it also leads in anticipated transition costs as a percentage of its total IT services costs. Loss to citizens Agencies such as the Census Bureau, Social Security Administration, Veterans Affairs Department, Health Care Financing Administration and the IRS, not to mention the Financial Management Service, are among those that provide services directly to citizens.