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How the CIA used Crypto AG encryption devices to spy on countries for decades (washingtonpost.com)

962 points by allard · 2434 days ago · 330 comments on HN

Article summary

The article discusses how the CIA used Crypto AG encryption devices to spy on countries for decades. The comments reveal a discussion on the US government's interference with cryptography vendors and products. The conversation also touches on the effectiveness of full-disk encryption and the potential for government agencies to compromise security measures. The article's content is not directly available, but the comments provide insight into the topic.

Main themes

  • CIA surveillance
  • cryptography interference
  • full-disk encryption
  • government surveillance
  • security measures

What commenters say

  • The US government has a history of interfering with cryptography vendors and products to gain a decryption advantage.
  • Full-disk encryption is not an effective security measure against government agencies with physical access to devices.
  • The CIA's use of Crypto AG encryption devices is an example of the government's willingness to compromise security measures for surveillance purposes.
  • Some commenters believe that the US government pressures companies to implement weaker cryptography, while others argue that there is no evidence to support this claim.
  • The effectiveness of full-disk encryption is debated, with some arguing it is a necessary security measure and others claiming it is easily bypassed.
  • Government agencies have various methods to compromise security measures, including exploiting human error and using legal means to pressure companies.
  • The use of end-to-end encryption is seen as a more secure alternative to other forms of encryption that can be compromised by government agencies.