In just 28 days, and after only a "cursory review," federal investigators representing a fake firm obtained a license from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) that would allow them to buy enough low-yield radioactive material to build a "dirty bomb."

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) reported that the NRC mailed the license to the fake firm’s home office – a UPS drop box – based on no more than faxes and phone calls.

"From the date of application to the issuance of the license, the entire process lasted 28 days," stated the GAO in its report. "GAO investigators essentially obtained a valid materials license from the NRC without ever leaving their desks."

Using copies of the license, GAO investigators altered the wording restricting the quantities that could be obtained, and then ordered enough radioactive material to build a bomb. “Importantly, with patience and the proper financial resources, we could have accumulated substantially more radioactive source material,” wrote GAO investigators.

The GAO has recommended that the NRC "develop improved screening criteria to evaluate new license applications," and conduct more intense reviews of its licensing examiners.

In a release dated July 12, the NRC responded that it had "moved rapidly" to correct the deficiencies. "Now, any new applicant for a license for these far less dangerous materials will get a visit from the NRC or have to come to see us and prove their bona fides," stated the NRC.

Also See: Federal Agents Smuggle Dirty Bomb Material into U.S.