The "Clipper Chip" was a proposal in the early 1990's to require installation of
cryptographic chips in computer and telecommunications equipment that would provide
a "back door" to allow surveillance by the government. Though its proponents attempted
to assure the public that the Clipper Chip would only be used with proper legal
authorization, the Clipper Chip was rejected by overwhelming public opposition to
giving the government nearly ubiquitous
surveillance capabilities.
Links:
The Clipper Chip web page, Electronic Privacy Information Center
Comments? comments@privacilla.org
(Subject: ClipperChip)
[updated 8/29/00]
