Alleged Misuse of 'SGT Security' Commercial Software

摘要

We made the audit in response to a request from Senator William V. Roth, Jr., to determine the validity of allegations that a commercial software program, 'SGT Security',1, was misused by the U.S. Air Force 7th Communications Group (7CG) in violation of U.S. copyright laws. The audit was conducted from December 1991 through February 1992 as a part of our audit of Controls Over Copyrighted Computer Software (Project% No. 2RF-5004). 'SGT Security' is produced by Pike Creek Computer Company (the Company) and marketed by the Kaleidoscope Company. The program is designed to erase previously stored data from computer disks. 'SGT Security' is advertised as capable of erasing all types of sensitive and -secure files and is marketed as a means of declassifying computer disks. The software is normally licensed for 4 years, and each copy is restricted for use on only one microcomputer. Since individuals can easily make copies of most software, we cannot be assured that illegal copies of 'SGT security' were not made. However, the audit disclosed no evidence of illegal use or dissemination of 'SGT Security' within the 7CG or other activities supported by the 7CG. During the audit, 7CG officials initiated procedures to control and account for copyrighted commercial software.