Nortel Introduces Secure Telephone Solution for Government

Nortel recently introduced enhancements to the Meridian telephone series that meet strict U.S. federal government security requirements for protecting highly sensitive information from intrusion and tampering.

The new Secure Telephone, part of Nortel's portfolio of Meridian telephony solutions, complies with U.S. Telephone Security Group (TSG) guidelines for government use. The Secure Telephone offers a wide range of security features that prevent outside intrusion into government networks and safeguard against equipment tampering.

"Today more than ever it is critical that the U.S. government has highly-reliable and secure communications systems to analyze and use the information needed to protect the country and its citizens," said Chuck Saffell, chief executive officer, Nortel PEC* Solutions*. "With its Secure Telephone, Nortel continues to deliver networking technologies specifically designed to help governments protect mission-critical information."

The Secure Telephone M2016S builds on the proven reliability of Nortel's Meridian telephone series to provide a Type-accepted Class 2 telephone. It ensures security to prevent the telephone from being used as a passive listening device when the handset is in the on-hook position, as well as the following security features:

• Positive disconnect - provides on-hook audio security, immediately disconnecting the telephone from the network when not in use.
• Off-hook visual indicator - indicates that the security features are off when the phone is off hook. Acts as an alert so the user knows the security features are disabled.
• Unique serial number - appears in three places inside and outside the phone for quick verification during security sweeps. Mismatched serial numbers could indicate unauthorized repair or tampering.
• Tamper-evident labeling - a hologram sticker on the outside of the phone must be removed or broken to get inside, making it evident that somebody has tampered with the phone.
• No handsfree microphone - a requirement for government standards. This reduces the risk of sensitive information being overheard.

Nortel is the industry's first and only major infrastructure vendor to offer TSG-approved telephones. The M2016S complies with the U.S. government's directive 'DCID 6/9 Annex G,' which specifies requirements for government telecommunications equipment installed in Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs). The M2016S has been tested and is in compliance with the specifications of TSG Standards and is registered as an approved device by the U.S. National Telecommunications Security Working Group (NTSWG).