California legislators have passed a law which will force makers of wireless internet equipment to include guidance on keeping data secure on wireless connections. The law now awaits signature by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.
From 1 October 2007, manufacturers must place warning labels on all equipment capable of receiving Wi-Fi signals, according to the new state law. These can take the form of box stickers, special notification in setup software, notification during the router setup, or through automatic securing of the connection. One warning sticker must be positioned so that it must be removed by a consumer before the product can be used.
The warnings would have to contain information on how to secure files, folders, and connections. [MORE]
Terminator turns into Girly Man over Wi-Fi bill Computerworld Blog By Preston Gralla on Fri, 09/01/2006 - 12:57pm
California Governor Schwarzenegger is about to sign a Wi-Fi bill that would require makers of Wi-Fi gear to put warning labels on their equipment, reminding users to password-protect their wireless networks. In doing so, he's about to prove himself to be a weak-kneed Girly Man rather than a muscle-bound Terminator.
The law will force manufacturers of wireless products to put warning stickers on their wireless routers, or make note of the warning during installation, or pop up an alert before the gear is used.
Now, there's nothing really wrong with this bill -- but then again, there's nothing right with it, either. It's like passing a law forcing makers of food processors to warn people not to shove their hands into the gear's blades while hitting the "On" switch. It serves no purpose at all.
But passing it is an easy way for pols to pretend that they're concerned about online security, and are actually doing something about it.
In fact, they're not. The bill itself is weak-kneed when it comes to online security. The legislation notes, "There is disagreement as to whether it is legal for someone to use another person's Wi-Fi connection to browse the Internet if the owner of the Wi-Fi connection has not put a password on it," but then doesn't actually clarify that grey area in any way.
If Schwarzenegger and other California pols really want to take action of some kind, they could clarify whether it's legal to piggyback onto Wi-Fi networks, or pass anti-spyware and anti-spam legislation with real teeth.
But that would take thought and backbone. It's easier to be a Girly Man, as the Governator has found.