Security the Pressing Thing

Psst. Over here! (I’m typing r-e-a-l-l-y softly so no one else can hear.)

Seems you can’t look over your shoulder, in the rear-view mirror or in the reflection of a puddle without seeing some reminder, allusion, suggestion (thought broadcast?) about the surveillance and security state. And the more data and reassurance we get from government and industry, industry and government, the more suspicious and distrustful we become. The latest case in point? How about that slightly Cyborgian photo-illustration Apple SVP Phil Schiller used to introduce the new whiz bang fingerprint technology on the latest and greatest iPhone?

(Guess the revolution‘s really over, isn’t it?)

With suspicions about Big Brother running so high, even Pogue got sucked in, spending almost a quarter of his review of the new device trying to reassure twit-critics there is nothing nefarious about the new fun with digits.

I hear you saying it gives me more control and more security. But, like the illustration, it’s hard not to think you’re putting something over on me … and it’s getting under my skin.

(photo 1: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images caption: Apple Senior Vice President of Worldwide Marketing Phil Schiller speaks about security features of the new iPhone 5S in Cupertino, California. Apple launched two new iPhone models that will run iOS 7. The 5C is made from a hard-coated polycarbonate and comes in five colours. The 5S features a fingerprint sensor for better security and has an upgraded camera.)