A Presentation on Government Policy Concerning Encryption

By

Aaron Bowen, Ben Stark, and Jennie Sanders
 
 

 

Encryption:  High Tech Locks and Keys

The increasing use  of open media such as the Internet and cellular phones has placed a new premium on the value of encryption.  As more people will rely on this form of media for important business, medical, and other sensitive transactions, encryption will play a critical role in the future of their lives.  Without widespread use of socially efficient encryption, the  full potential of the Internet and electric commerce will never be realized.

A debate has been raging in Washington  about the future of encryption policy in this country.  One side favors heavy restrictions on encryption.  They would like to see computer users forced to provide the government with a "key" to their encoded communcations.  The other side opposes this type of free access.  They feel that encryption is a  form of free speech that must be protected by the Constitution, and refuse to grant the government access to their private communications.  The battle has just begun and the long term victor has yet to be seen.  The outcome will have far reaching effects, from the effectiveness of law enforcement, to the international success of America's corporations.  The biggest effect will be on the public's confidence in the Internet.
 
 
 

.