Taking a Byte Out of Crime (and Terrorism)

Encryption, the form of scrambling e-mail messages so they can't be intercepted, is also under the spotlight. Government agencies have long argued that criminals and terrorists could use encryption to elude law enforcement. There have been reports that the terrorists involved in the September 11 attacks did in fact send e-mail messages encrypted. Government agencies have argued for years that they should be given a "backdoor" ability to decrypt such messages.

In light of the recent events most people seem to feel more comfortable allowing their bags to be inspected at airports. Along that line, should we allow our e-mail to be inspected as well? But before answering that question remember these ones: What if it helps save thousands of lives? What if it helps saves millions of lives? What is it helps save even one life?

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