In response to nation-state hackers conducting an espionage campaign targeting U.S. commercial telecommunications infrastructure (e.g., AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile networks) to monitor government phone calls, text messages, and other sensitive information, the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Louisiana has implemented encrypted communication solutions for sensitive court business which are effective immediately.
General help desk support and other administrative business with the court, such as e-filing support, scheduling, and discussion of matters on the public docket, may continue to be conducted over standard lines of communication. Discussions of confidential or sensitive matters, however, require an encrypted solution such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams and/or encrypted email.
Both Zoom and Microsoft Teams provide free software applications that allow participants to join encrypted meetings via computers and smartphones. Alternatively, court issued meeting links can be launched using a computer or smartphone’s default web browser. Participants must join meetings or phone calls using court issued Zoom or Microsoft Teams links. Dial-in phone number options are not encrypted and will not be allowed for sensitive matters.
Please visit Zoom or Microsoft Teams for additional information on these applications.