Information technology officials across the Federal government today agree that information security will be the next priority IT issue following Year 2000. Every day, the information that USDA agencies manage affects the financial markets and lives of individuals. We must exercise due diligence in its protection. As we achieve greater ease in the dissemination of information, the Department must walk a fine line between information exchange and information protection: this is especially important in an age of instant access and global exchange. As networks expand and connect, security concerns will expand exponentially.