House enables use of Skype, video teleconferencing for members

The House has finally resolved security concerns regarding the adoption of Internet phone and video teleconferencing services, enabling lawmakers to use both on its networks.

Security concerns delayed the House’s adoption of the technology. The breach of the Senate’s computer systems by hacker group Lulz Security earlier this month further highlighted the House’s need for caution. The House has negotiated modified license agreements with Skype and ooVoo to maintain the necessary level of information technology security within the network. These agreements “will require members, officers, committee chairs, officials and staff to accept House-specific agreements that comply with House Rules and maximize protection for members and staff,” wrote Rep. Dan Lungren (R-CA), a member of the House Technology Operations Team. Detailed requirements on how to comply with these agreements have been posted to intranet site HouseNet. Rep Lungren also noted that Skype users will be limited to conducting video teleconferencing sessions on the House’s public Wi-Fi connection to minimize security risks associated with peer-to-peer networking.