The 2001 Patriot Act and Its Implications for the IT Security Professional

As part of the post-September 11th rush to protect America from acts of terror, the United States Government signed into law legislation that would give the government additional tools to help track, prevent, and combat terrorism. The controversial USA Patriot Act (USAPA) has garnered both support and contempt from Americans. Some describe its tenets as Draconian in scale while others criticize it as not doing enough to ensure the safety of US citizens. Regardless of one's view, the USAPA will likely have a significant impact on the IT Security Professional (ITSP).This paper will focus on IT related issues encompassed by the USAPA in general as well as possible actions that could be expected of ITSPs. The ultimate goal of this paper will be to provide the ITSP with a broad understanding of the IT related sections of the USAPA and how it might impact his or her work environment.