Privacy advocates are not amused, and neither are computer security experts. University of Cambridge Computer security engineer Ross Anderson says, "I'd consider it somewhat pernicious if Microsoft were to deploy such software widely. They are arguably committing offenses in a number of countries under a number of different laws if they make available software that defeats the security procedures internet users deploy to protect their privacy.
If you'll excuse us, we'll be in the corner sipping Victory Gin and writing in our secret notebook.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
5-23-2007 @ 3:58PM
Karim said...
So while everyone's attention is focused on what someone from Evil Microsoft (boo, hiss) said was THEORETICALLY POSSIBLE...
...meanwhile, everyone is distracted from the fact that this kind of crap is GOOGLE'S ENITRE BUSINESS PLAN.
Did you just visit MySpace and Facebook? Oh look, you got a Google ad for Abercrombie & Fitch. Gee, how did they know?!?!?
"Hello Mr. Yakimoto. Welcome back to The Gap. How'd those assorted tank tops work out for you?"
See you in the future. Good luck with that whole privacy thing.
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5-23-2007 @ 6:07PM
westudi said...
Yeah, Google is the one I am concerned with.
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5-23-2007 @ 7:33PM
byron said...
has anyone found a way to turn off the "Minority Report" marketing function of web 2.0?
honestly, i am just as disturbed by my personalized Abercrombie ads as i am this Microsoft revelation.
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5-23-2007 @ 9:21PM
Sam said...
You can stop companies and websites tracking you by taking control of cookies and only allowing ones that are needed, also the firefox addon below can block google analytics.
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/743
http://www.customizegoogle.com/block-google-analytics-cookies.html
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5-24-2007 @ 12:37AM
K said...
You really want to surf that fast?
I use SAFARI or FIREFOX. I delete cookies, cache and history EVERY TIME I switch web sites.
Is it slow? A fraction. Do I want them/you to see where I go every time? NO!
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5-24-2007 @ 7:27PM
Monoto said...
Sure, it may be pernicious, but if Microsoft or Google don't do it, then somebody else will, and you can bet the spammers and data miners will be holding first class tickets on this train.
The practices and measures employed by internet users to remain secure have been constantly evolving as long as the internet has been around. I sure hope Ross Anderson isn't implying that the current methods of staying safe online are the best they'll ever be.
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