Apple, Amazon, IBM to discuss open software security at White House

Thursday January 13's meeting has been prompted specifically by the discovery of a vulnerability in the open-source Log4j software, which is used internationally for logging of data in applications. White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan wrote to Big Tech CEOs in December, saying such open-source software is a "key national security concern."

The meeting with deputy national security advisor Anne Neueberger will discuss how the security of open-source software can be improved, according to a report by Reuters on Thursday morning. Alongside Apple, Amazon, and IBM, it is expected to include executives from Microsoft, Meta, Oracle, and agencies such as the Department of Defense.

This discussion also comes after incidents including the 2021 SolarWinds hack which accessed government emails and phones. It also follows the breach of the US Treasury Department in 2020.

It's not clear who will be participating in the meeting as representatives from the companies. The meeting is also expected to be virtual.