How would you like to be able to scan one card or type in a single password for every action you take on the internet? Signing into Facebook, checking your email, transferring money, buying a case of ammo from Cabela’s (guilty), or anything else could be done with the swipe of a card. Well, the government wants to make this hypothetical convenience a reality.
Advocates point to the convenience such a system could offer, and to claims of a system making our internet activities more secure and more private. Those working on the system also claim that there will be no sort of “centralized database”.
An internet ID system would certainly have many skeptics, and I’m one of them. Most internet security experts agree that it’s best to have separate passwords for each website you use that requires a password. Those who wish to use a single password for everything are already free to do so. There are also concerns about the government’s ability to keep any information it receives classified, and the fact that Wikileaks still exists does not ease those concerns.
So what are your thoughts? Would you like the convenience of a government-issued internet passport, or would you prefer manage your cyber security yourself?
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-501465_162-20027837-501465.html
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/jan/13/obamas-internet-passport/
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5 comments:
In theory, this idea sounds wonderful--and would hopefully save me from forgetting my multitude passwords. However, I am still very skeptical about the concept. Despite hearing that security would be improved with this system, I am doubtful that could be the case. If people have the ability to hack into multiple accounts with a separate password for each, how does consolidating accounts do anything but weaken defenses?
I agree with Courtney. I would not be the first to hop on that train. It is not terribly inconvenient to remember a few different passwords. Although I don't recommend this many people use the same password for related cites anyways. Although it seems nice I think the government would have to show a major defect in the current methods in order for the public to even consider accepting a government issued password.
Since today's society relies on convenience and quick methods of transfers (PayPal, using phones for airplane tickets etc.), I can see why this concept would be exciting. Except, like my fellow classmates, I am also very skeptical about this idea. Identity theft is already very prevalent in today's society and the idea of having one card, or one password is extremely scary. I would need much more evidence as to how this method provides more secruity before signing off on such an idea.
The concept of an internet ID system seems convenient; but, in reality, it is not plausible. In their editorial, The Washington Times writes, "Centralizing access to personal information only makes it easier for the bad guys because it means they only need to steal one key to unlock a vast wealth of financial and personal information." I agree, using a single password to access multiple sites increases the likelihood of security being compromised. For that reason alone, I would prefer to manage my own cyber security.
This sounds tempting. It could be a lot easier if it did in fact work but just like everyone else I'm a little skeptical about the idea. I would definitely like to have it tried out and see how it goes. Until it is for sure safe enough, I guess I will have to stick with hoping I remember most of my passwords.
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