We have seen quite a bit of discussion re rumors of the government taking control of the internet and having power to block access to this or that. If there has been any support for that on USMB, I missed it.
But the rumors persist and there's always that chance that when there is smoke. . . .
Noted this blurb today re one government agency that is implementing the policy. Now I can see why an employer would restrict chat messaging, social networking stuff even like USMB, gaming sites etc. You don't want your employees spending all their time doing that. But blocking "controversial news/opinion sites?" Who decides what is controversial?
And listening to other commentary, it is speculated that this may be the first shot across the bow. If it works out at the TSA, it could be implemented in other government agencies and eventually spread to the private sector. There isn't so much problem with an employer exercising control of how company computers can be used. But if the government should decide to make it mandatory for their contractors, etc. . . . .
And wouldn't it be good for a security agency to have their thumb on the pulse of controversial issues out there?
I don't know. I see a possible red flag here. Do you?
But the rumors persist and there's always that chance that when there is smoke. . . .
Noted this blurb today re one government agency that is implementing the policy. Now I can see why an employer would restrict chat messaging, social networking stuff even like USMB, gaming sites etc. You don't want your employees spending all their time doing that. But blocking "controversial news/opinion sites?" Who decides what is controversial?
(Credit: CBS News) The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is blocking certain websites from the federal agency's computers, including halting access by staffers to any Internet pages that contain a "controversial opinion," according to an internal email obtained by CBS News.
The email was sent to all TSA employees from the Office of Information Technology on Friday afternoon.
It states that as of July 1, TSA employees will no longer be allowed to access five categories of websites that have been deemed "inappropriate for government access."
The categories include:
• Chat/Messaging
• Controversial opinion
• Criminal activity
• Extreme violence (including cartoon violence) and gruesome content
• Gaming
The email does not specify how the TSA will determine if a website expresses a "controversial opinion."
TSA to Block "Controversial Opinion" on the Web - CBS News Investigates - CBS News
And listening to other commentary, it is speculated that this may be the first shot across the bow. If it works out at the TSA, it could be implemented in other government agencies and eventually spread to the private sector. There isn't so much problem with an employer exercising control of how company computers can be used. But if the government should decide to make it mandatory for their contractors, etc. . . . .
And wouldn't it be good for a security agency to have their thumb on the pulse of controversial issues out there?
I don't know. I see a possible red flag here. Do you?
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