Filtering plan goes from bad to worse
The Federal Government’s unspeakable internet filtering plan just got a whole lot scarier:
THE Federal Government’s controversial internet censorship scheme may extend to filter more online traffic than was first thought, Broadband Minister Stephen Conroy revealed today.
In a post on his department’s blog, Senator Conroy today said technology that could filter data sent directly between computers would be tested as part of the upcoming live filtering trial.
“Technology that filters peer-to-peer and BitTorrent traffic does exist and it is anticipated that the effectiveness of this will be tested in the live pilot trial,” Senator Conroy said.
Oh good. Because stateful inspection of every peer to peer connection in Australia is sure to go off without a hitch.
When the government first came out with the filtering plan, I remember mentioning to less tech-savvy friends that it would be useless at stopping child porn because it couldn’t filter P2P networks. I didn’t mean that as a suggestion.
Interesting that Conroy’s statement includes the phrase “peer-to-peer and BitTorrent traffic”, which is sort of like saying “Australian state capitals and Sydney”, or possibly “idiots and Stephen Conroy”. It makes me wonder whether he has any idea what the hell he’s talking about, but of course he must, being Communications Minister and all.
Merry Christmas
We’re a secular outfit at the ALS. And in practice, even if not strictly in theology, I’m an atheist. However I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and a happy new year. Be nice to your neighbours and try to love thy fellow man. If your extended family drives you around the twist try and forgive. And spare a thought for baby Jesus. 
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