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Internet 'Kill Switch' Would Give President Power To Shut Down The Web

A new Senate bill, sponsored by Senator Joseph Lieberman, proposes to give the president the authority "to seize control of or even shut down portions of the Internet," according to CNET.

The authority granted to the government in the bill, known as the Protecting Cyberspace as a National Asset Act (PCNAA), has been likened to an Internet "kill switch."

The bill would require that private companies--such as "broadband providers, search engines, or software firms," CNET explains--"immediately comply with any emergency measure or action" put in place by the Department of Homeland Security, or else face fines.

It would also see the creation of a new agency within the Department of Homeland Security, the National Center for Cybersecurity and Communications (NCCC). Any private company reliant on "the Internet, the telephone system, or any other component of the U.S. 'information infrastructure'" would be "subject to command" by the NCCC, and some would be required to engage in "information sharing" with the agency, says CBS4.

Numerous groups, such as TechAmerica, have criticized the bill, warning of the "potential for absolute power" and expressing reservations about the "unintended consequences that would result from the legislation's regulatory approach."

LINK

Well, when criminals have a lot to hide, they want an easier way to hide it.

Simulist wrote:

Internet 'Kill Switch' Would Give President Power To Shut Down The Web

A new Senate bill, sponsored by Senator Joseph Lieberman, proposes to give the president the authority "to seize control of or even shut down portions of the Internet," according to CNET.

The authority granted to the government in the bill, known as the Protecting Cyberspace as a National Asset Act (PCNAA), has been likened to an Internet "kill switch."

The bill would require that private companies--such as "broadband providers, search engines, or software firms," CNET explains--"immediately comply with any emergency measure or action" put in place by the Department of Homeland Security, or else face fines.

It would also see the creation of a new agency within the Department of Homeland Security, the National Center for Cybersecurity and Communications (NCCC). Any private company reliant on "the Internet, the telephone system, or any other component of the U.S. 'information infrastructure'" would be "subject to command" by the NCCC, and some would be required to engage in "information sharing" with the agency, says CBS4.

Numerous groups, such as TechAmerica, have criticized the bill, warning of the "potential for absolute power" and expressing reservations about the "unintended consequences that would result from the legislation's regulatory approach."

LINK

Well, when criminals have a lot to hide, they want an easier way to hide it.

So would we get our money back if they kill the Internet mid app download from the party we paid?

That said, what the fuck are they so scared of? It's like airport security screening. It's pathetic to watch all of these heretofore proud, macho, financially stable, somewhat powerful men and such take off their shoes, take off their belts, empty their pockets, get blown on by explosive detectors and then once through, all's good again. Strong once more! Back to the multi tasking! Everybody just accepts the boss. Who is this boss? Security theater as we go each in tow with our little entertainment gadgets to get us through to the text time we have demoralize ourselves, only not thinking it demoralizing, but a hassle -- but of course, for our safety.

What the fuck ever.