I2O Request for Information (RFI): Formal Methods to Deliver Resilient Systems

DARPA's Information Innovation Office (I2O) seeks community feedback on the draft Guide to Formal Methods to Deliver Resilient Systems for Proposals (“the FMDRS Guide”). DARPA is interested in feedback from all capable sources, particularly those sources with formal methods implementation experience, on:

A new Senate bill seeks to address growing national security concerns over consumer routers and modems, which have been increasingly targeted by cybercriminals and foreign adversaries. The legislation aims to improve the security of these devices, requiring manufacturers to implement more robust protections and limit their vulnerabilities. The bill highlights the risk posed by insecure devices in homes and businesses, which can be exploited to access sensitive networks and data.

The FBI has issued an urgent warning advising organizations to disable local administrator accounts to reduce the risk of cyberattacks. The warning comes as attacks targeting these accounts continue to rise, with cybercriminals exploiting weak or unchanged passwords to gain access to critical systems. Local admin accounts are often a gateway for attackers to escalate privileges and compromise entire networks, making it essential for businesses and government entities to enhance their defense strategies.

Tom Snyder, cybersecurity expert and CEO, recently shared his insights on the current state of cybersecurity and the growing threat of cybercrime during an interview in January 2025. Snyder emphasized the reality that "everything is hacked" in today’s interconnected digital world, where cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated. He highlighted the urgency for organizations to adopt stronger security measures and proactive defense strategies to protect sensitive data and critical infrastructure from escalating threats.

Sheila Thomas has been named Executive Director of the National Security Agency (NSA), becoming the agency’s third-highest-ranking official. In this role, Thomas will oversee daily operations and implement strategic initiatives to advance the NSA’s mission of safeguarding national security. Her extensive experience in intelligence and cybersecurity leadership positions her to address emerging threats and guide the agency through a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Gil Herrera, Senior Scientist for Trusted Microelectronics at the National Security Agency (NSA), recently spoke at the 2025 Defense R&D Summit, addressing the growing importance of quantum technologies for national security. Herrera discussed the implications of quantum research for fields such as cryptography and secure communications, emphasizing the urgency of staying ahead of adversaries in the global quantum race. His remarks highlighted the need for collaboration across government, industry, and academia to overcome technical hurdles and develop resilient quantum solutions.

The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate is spearheading efforts to improve wireless communication technologies for first responders and emergency personnel. This initiative aims to address critical challenges such as signal interference, network congestion, and reliability in disaster scenarios. By developing advanced tools and leveraging partnerships with industry and academia, DHS seeks to ensure that emergency teams have access to seamless and secure communications during high-stakes operations.

The National Security Agency (NSA) has unveiled its January 2025 Headline Puzzle, challenging participants to test their cryptography and problem-solving skills. These monthly puzzles are designed to engage enthusiasts and professionals alike, offering a fun and educational way to explore concepts in encryption and cybersecurity. Try your hand at the latest puzzle on the NSA website.