DOJ - NDCAC/CIP Engineering Program Support - MRAS

The Department of Justice (DOJ), through the General Services Administration (GSA), is conducting market research to support the Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) Operational Technology Division. This initiative is part of the National Domestic Communications Assistance Center's Communications Interception Program (NDCAC CIP). The overarching goal is to enhance the FBI's ability to protect national security and enforce U.S. laws by improving law enforcement agencies' access to necessary telecommunications data, under appropriate legal authority, for electronic surveillance.

The work requested involves ensuring compliance with the Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act (CALEA). CALEA mandates that telecommunications carriers must have capabilities in place to assist law enforcement agencies in conducting electronic surveillance. This includes isolating and providing telecommunications and call-identifying information expeditiously and unobtrusively while maintaining privacy standards. The scope of work requires technical expertise in program management, contributions to technical standards organizations, verification of industry-developed solutions, and research into emerging technologies that may impact electronic surveillance.

As part of this effort, the FBI aims to mitigate challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in accessing communications data due to technological advancements that outpace existing capabilities. To address these challenges, a National Electronic Surveillance Strategy known as "Lawful Access" has been developed. This strategy seeks to centralize technical assistance, coordinate research and development efforts across various law enforcement entities, and establish mechanisms for technology sharing within the community.

The NDCAC plays a pivotal role in this strategy by serving as a hub for collaboration between federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies. It focuses on overcoming hurdles related to lawful electronic surveillance and evidence collection from communication services and devices. By facilitating partnerships with the communications industry and leveraging shared technological resources among law enforcement bodies nationwide, NDCAC aims to enhance operational effectiveness in addressing national security concerns.