The debate regarding encryption and privacy in the digital age has become a hot-button issue in light of the recent legal struggles between Apple and the FBI. Many technology producers and consumers have become particularly concerned with their messaging privacy, fearing similar compelled actions forced by governments. In response to these concerns, the developers at WhatsApp have taken a strong stance in favor of encryption, protecting the privacy rights of people around the world.
Engineers at Apple are drawing a line in the sand. According to The Hill, multiple employees of the company have stated that they will outright refuse to comply with orders from the FBI to weaken iPhone security, should the agency prevail in an ongoing court battle. For some, this would mean resigning from the company, for others, simply declining to write specific code, whatever the cost may be to their professional futures.
The FBI is trying to frame its ongoing battle with Apple over iPhone encryption as a matter of freedom vs. security, claiming you have to give up one if you want the other. In fact, once you understand both the facts and the implications of what the FBI is asking Apple to do, it turns out to be a case of security vs. security, and the FBI’s position is the one that will make us all less safe.
With the release of Atlas Shrugged Part II on DVD, we get a chance to focus again on the power of government to keep people from pursuing and achieving success.