Internet SnoopingMatt Carrow

ACM TechNews 4/4/2012

Summary The United Kingdom is considering a

plan to allow security services to spy on all Britons’ internet activities. Government officials claim this plan is essential to the deterrence of terrorism and other threats.

Source: Washington Post (4/2/2012) Anthony Faiola, Ellen Nakashima

Ethical Decision Making1. Describe the ethical issue.

• Should an individual’s right to privacy be infringed?2. Identify the stakeholders and tell the outcome they

would like to see.• Citizens would like to uphold their privacy while still being

protected• Government wants to offer its protection at the cost of rights

3. Propose 3 solutions.1. Allow security agencies full discretion at any cost.2. Uphold individual rights at all costs.3. Allow security agencies discretion in specific situations.• i.e. on specific individuals who are reasonably suspected• My choice

Ethical Decision Making4. Would I be willing to allow everyone to use my solution?

• Yes. There would be no reason not to allow my solution to be used.5. Is the solution in accord with human nature?

4. Yes. It is human nature to want the best of both worlds, and while that is not always possible, I believe this solution is a worthy compromise.

6. Would there be majority agreement that this solution presents the most efficient means to the end?

4. I believe so. People will of course prefer to leave their rights uninfringed upon, but the only realistic way to achieve the protection they desire is for them to give the government some leeway.

7. Is this the solution I feel most committed to in my own conscience?

4. Yes.8. Which philosophy do you feel was most influential?

5. Realism. You can’t have your cake and eat it too.

ACM Code of EthicsSnooping Plan Violates 1.2 Avoid harm to others 1.3 Be honest and trustworthy 1.7 Respect the privacy of others 1.8 Honor confidentiality 2.3 Know/respect existing laws

• Possibly, I’m no expert on UK laws