The encryption debate just seems to be getting hotter and hotter as the battle between Apple and the FBI continues to grab headlines across America and all over the world. The debate has some in my social media circles screaming this is nothing more than a dog and pony show on both Apple’s and the FBI’s part. While others are firmly taking sides with either Apple or the government on the matter. The encryption debate isn’t an easy one but HBO’s John Oliver took to the airwaves to try and explain the encryption debate in terms easily understood by all and I think he nailed it. The eighteen minute video below is well worth your time to watch, especially if you’re struggling to understand the whole situation.
Video below contains adult language: NSFW
Oliver’s talking points are spot on here, acknowledging the fact that encryption is indeed used by nefarious and evil people but it also protects the innocent millions. He’s also spot on that those who require encryption for criminal gain are always going to find encryption even if Apple made this master key for the FBI. He points to services such as WhatsApp and Telegram as proof of this and goes on to talk about many more services.
But the best part of this is his honest take on Apple itself. Pointing out that the company isn’t perfect and even though it is a cutting edge tech company, it is struggling to stay one step ahead of the bad guys to protect its customers data. So why would they want to make this master key possible not only endangering customers data but pushing their own security efforts back several steps.
Again, this is a hugely complex debate and one that needs to be figured out by a nation of people, not the governing body (because we know what the government wants to happen). Other countries are watching this debate and as Oliver points out, they’re ready to make demands if the FBI gets their way.
What did you think of John Oliver’s argument in the encryption debate? Let us know in the comments below or on Twitter, Facebook and Google+.
Last Updated on January 23, 2017.