Court Orders DHS to Release "Internet Kill Switch" Plans

[unhappycamper]

Last edited Sun Nov 17, 2013, 08:19 AM - Edit history (1)

https://www.commondreams.org/headline/2013/11/15-3



Court Orders DHS to Release "Internet Kill Switch" Plans
- Jon Queally, staff writer
Published on Friday, November 15, 2013 by Common Dreams

A federal court this week has ordered the Department of Homeland of Security to disclose details about the so-called "internet Kill Switch," that would allow the agency to "deactivate wireless communications networks" if it determined a localized or national crisis demanded such an action.

In the classicly-rendered case, DHS has argued that shutting down entire communication networks might be necessary in order to prevent the detonation of radio-controlled bomb or explosive device.

However, siding with the Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC), which brought a suit demanding more transparency for the DHS program known as "Standard Operating Procedure 303" (or SOP303), the federal judge at the US District Court for the District of Columbia ruled that because the release of the protocol could not reasonably be seen as harming law enforcement "investigative techniques or prosecutions" it's cit ed reasons for keeping the details of the program secret did not hold up.

The court said the goverment could appeal the case or be forced to hand over the details requested within 30 days.

[annabanana]

1. and the brick wall at the back of the theater is revealed. . . . . n/t

[Enthusiast]

4. When it happens, it's game over.

"The illusion of freedom will continue as long as it's profitable to continue the illusion. At the point where the illusion becomes too expensive to maintain, they will just take down the scenery, they will pull back the curtains, they will move the tables and chairs out of the way and you will see the brick wall at the back of the theater"

— Frank Zappa

[annabanana]

2. Please cross-post to GD. . .n/t

[marmar]

3. k/r