IP: A comment on Some Notes on Today's Senate Hearings

[Dave Farber <farber () cis upenn edu>]

From: Jim Gillogly <jim () acm org>


Dave -
In Alan Davidson's message it's suggested that the FBI has backed off
its
drive for domestic GACK (gov't access to crypto keys):
> DOJ representative Robert Litt testified that as a matter of official
> policy the Administration is "not looking for any mandatory controls
> domestically at this
> time." This policy apparently applies to the FBI as well. (For an
> interesting aside, see today's Reuters story on the hearing: "The bureau
> hopes voluntary concessions by manufacturers of encryption technology will
> give it the same capabilities [as legislation], officials said." --
This is not a change in the FBI policy.  Louis Freeh has always said
that
he hopes voluntary concessions from private industry will allow them to
read anything they feel they need to.  However, he goes on to say that
if these hopes are not realized he will be back on the Hill lobbying
for mandatory GAK.  They've always been hopeful that they won't need
legislation, but according to the cited Reuters article they have not
given up their intention to try for it if they have no other way to read
the mail.  In fact, they indicate they will lobby <against> Rep.
Goodlatte's bill and any others that appear to reduce private
industry's incentives for "voluntary" compliance with GAK.


These statements should not be viewed as a change of heart or direction.



-- 
        Jim Gillogly
        12.19.5.0.6, 5 Cimi 4 Cumku, Sixth Lord of Night




****************************************************************************


Professor David Farber         
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