Cyber security is a big deal these days as more and more people feel wary about posting sensitive data on the web world and as more cases of online frauds surface across the world.
In order to combat cyber crimes, Google, the world’s largest Internet search company, and United States’ National Security Agency (NSA), arguably the world’s most powerful electronic surveillance organization, are joining forces.
The two powerful entities are reportedly working on an agreement under which the US agency would help the Internet major analyze a major corporate hacking said to have been originated in China. The attack, in December and January, Google has said, was aimed at its computer networks.
It is not yet known what exactly might be the nature of the co-operation between the two giants. Will Google users be comfortable if their data are shared with the NSA? Will such information be used for anything other than fighting cyber crimes? Wouldn’t sharing of critical information on net users violate laws in the US and other countries?
These are some of the mute questions netizens would like Google and NSA to answer.
Both the NSA and Google are tight-lipped over the reported partnership so far.
The tie-up won’t be easy given private agencies’ suspicion about government bodies’ alleged penchant to peep into private lives. Where do you draw the line and how to do it might be a huge task.
Google will not be comfortable with the partnership if it affects its business interests, which is a strong possibility.
The hacking of Google sites in December and January affected more than 30 large companies. It also targeted Gmail accounts of human rights activists in various countries, including China.
Subsequently, Google threatened to close its operations in China unless the government agreed to let the firm operate an uncensored search engine there. A decision on it is yet to be reached.
Even before the deal is announced, Electronic Privacy Information Centre (EPIC), a privacy advocacy group, has approached the NSA for details on the reported partnership. The request is filed under the Freedom of Information Act.
Separately, EPIC has filed a lawsuit against the NSA and the National Security Council, seeking more information on the NSA’s authority over the security of U.S. computer networks.