Dispute arises over proposal for wiretaps; phone companies balk at latest plan by F.B.I

Article Abstract:

The FBI is attempting to modernize its wiretap systems, but is running into problems and disagreements with the telephone industry. Telephone companies claim the new system the FBI wants to implement will be more intrusive and costly than was originally projected. Telephone company representative are also concerned that the new system would have enough power to monitor tens of thousands of conversations simultaneously in a single geographic area. The FBI stated the industry had misinterpreted the capacity requirements of the bureau. The bureau would not want to monitor hundreds of transmissions simultaneously from all possible network switching center in an urban area. The FBI said that because data and digital voice transactions are more difficult to monitor than traditional analog telephone conversations, phone companies need to provide new kinds of network access when presented with a court-authorized wire tap from law officials.

Communications Equipment, Telecommunications Equipment, Communications Equipment Manufacturing, Telecommunications systems, United States. Federal Bureau of Investigation, Wiretapping

---

White House proposes initiatives on data scrambling

Article Abstract:

The Clinton Administration is proposing data-scrambling policy initiatives that would make it easier for US corporations to compete in international markets. The Administration is considering the liberalization of export controls on encryption software and has expressed interest in working with the industry to develop key-escrow systems. The White House is supporting key encryption as a way of protecting data while enabling law enforcement officials to monitor electronically scrambled data. The National Research Council feels the Administration is moving too quickly in this area because key-escrow technology has not yet been proven to be feasible. Many computer vendors and civil libertarians also vehemently oppose key-escrow encryption because they believe it will violate rights to privacy. Three bills have been introduced in Congress to completely deregulate export controls.

Government Regulation

---

U.S. classifies a device to surf the Web as a weapon

Article Abstract:

The US government is classifying a $300 TV set-top box manufactured by Sony and Philips Electronics as a weapon, in order to restrict sales of the device in foreign markets. The set-top box is already marketed in retail outlets within the US. The device employs computer-security technology that conflicts with the government's efforts to restrict the export of data-scrambling devices. Classifying them as weapons means they will require a special export license before they can be sold in foreign markets. The devices are designed to protect the privacy of users and enable secure online sales transactions, but the government is concerned that criminals may employ the technology illegally. The devices employ 128-bit encryption technology, while US laws currently prohibit the export of data-scrambling technology employing keys containing more than 40 bits.

Radio & TV communications equipment, Encryption/Decryption Equip, Other Communications Equipment Manufacturing, Cryptographic equipment, Set-top boxes (Television), Television equipment, Data security devices, Set-top internet box, Data security device

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Silicon Valley cuts donations to President over tort reform; money from computer industry drops by half. Microsoft presses its view about rivals' 3-way deal
• Abstracts: AT&T plans to offer Internet over a $500 wireless phone. Deals to move Global Positioning Technology toward everyday use
• Abstracts: Local operators are standing by; after the Bells and their new rivals have it out, consumers will get an earful

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.