Securing the distributed word processing network

Abstract

Abstract There has been little concern for the security of stand-alone and shared-logic word processor systems although the threats are there and the loss from breaches of security can be very expensive. Word processors usually store processed information rather than data and modification or destruction of a document can lead to poor or delayed decisions. Inherent controls of paper-based systems are lost when the typing function is automated. Word processing networks are particularly vulnerable with reliance placed on the software system to secure documents. The weakest configuration in distributed word processing systems is in moderate size networks which cannot justify sophisticated hardware to support sophisticated operating systems and security software. Therefore, either additional physical security for each terminal or a more sophisticated authorization routine must be provided. The first is nearly impossible and the second rarely exists on these systems. As the trend toward hard disks for these units continues, the best solution may be the inclusion of a cryptographic routine.