SunBlock Systems Helps the United Nations Increase Information Security

The Client

TWI Interactive and the United Nations

The Scenario

In preparation for its September 2002 Summit on Economic Development in Johannesburg, South Africa, the United Nations chose TWI Interactive (TWIi) to host the summit Web site. Expecting protests and demonstrations similar to those encountered during World Bank and International Monetary Fund summits, the clients were extremely concerned about information security.

The Investigation

TWIi utilized SunBlock to help secure the Web site and hosting environment. SunBlock experts began by conducting a vulnerability assessment of TWIi's servers and hosting infrastructure. This comprehensive assessment included testing TWIi's entire network and server farm as well as examining their system architecture, security policies, and security response procedures. This assessment identified numerous system vulnerabilities and, in response, SunBlock developed Computer Incident Response Team (CIRT) guidelines. Working closely with TWIi, the SunBlock team corrected the vulnerabilities and installed network monitoring systems before the launch of the Web site.

The Benefits

SunBlock helped secure the Web site and hosting environment. Despite numerous hacking attempts during the summit, the site remained fully operational and secure.