Messages in this thread | | | From | bofh@snoopy ... | Date | Sun, 20 Apr 97 16:45:13 +1100 | Subject | Re: [Crypto] Re: ftp.kernel.org vs. ftp.funet.fi |
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>> We should specify an interface with which a loadable module, >> developed outside the U.S., could provide crypto functions, and >> other modules or parts of the kernel could elect to use them if >> available. >> >> Won't work, there are laws that say it is also illegal to export >> anything which "allows non-exportable crypto to be plugged in >> easily". >> >> There were changes many months ago to Glibc specifically because of >> this problem. >Hmm.
>Linus creates a kernel with encryption in it. >He encrypts it with an international encryption algorithym (blowfish for >eg) > or even a few of them... you never know who the CIA has bought. He >exports the encrypted code. >Someone in (for example) Finland de-encrypts it and put it one their site.
>This essentially creates a catch-22 (or double bind in Psychology) >situation for the government. They have been avoiding telling the world >how much they can crack.... if they want to prosecute Linus they would >have to reveal what they can crack.
I have always been under the impression that the CIA would just shoot someone who put them in such a position. But maybe I'm wrong and the CIA is really a caring organization with the interests of American residents at heart, and that it's officers are fine law abiding citizens who would never kill anyone.
Russell Coker
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