Inside Google

Google, NSA Partnership Raises Privacy Hackles

James Temple

The revelation that Google Inc. is partnering with the National Security Agency to probe a widespread cyber attack has quickened the pulse of privacy advocates.

Continue reading...

Google asking spy agency for help

John M. Simpson

Google has apparently gone to the super secret National Security Agency seeking help in preventing cyber attacks.

Continue reading...

Consumer Watchdog Lauds Clinton’s Call For Open Internet, Stresses Need For Online Consumer Privacy Safeguards

John M. Simpson

WASHINGTON, DC --  Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s condemnation of cyber attacks and censorship is an important endorsement of a free global Internet, but just as important to ensuring the Internet’s contribution to democracy and economic growth is a commitment to consumer privacy, Consumer Watchdog said today.

Continue reading...

Googling Obama’s China policy

Eamon Javers Kenneth P. Vogel

Google's ties to the Obama administration are perhaps unrivaled in corporate America, but the Internet giant's announcement this week that it's considering pulling out of China because of Chinese censorship and hacker attacks put the White House in a tricky spot. "They like to go around and sing the mantra, 'Don't be evil,'" said John Simpson, a consumer advocate with the nonprofit Consumer Watchdog. "But they almost always act in what they perceive to be Google's interest - and that doesn't necessarily coincide with that of any government."

Continue reading...

Security Firm Outlines How Attack Against Google Was Pulled Off

Pete Carey

A Silicon Valley Internet security firm on Thursday described for the first time how hackers from China were able to crack Google's defenses, saying the attackers took advantage of a flaw in Microsoft's Web browser to probe deeply into the company's network. In addition to the Google network, the high-profile intrusion also targeted Gmail accounts in the United States and other countries. This may prompt users to demand better security for electronic mail and other personal data that's stored on Internet clouds, some advocates say. "The problem up until now is that people like Google have emphasized speed and efficiency and ease of use," said John M. Simpson, an advocate with Consumer Watchdog. "In too many cases, they have let security and privacy become a secondary issue. This situation is a wake-up call for everybody."

Continue reading...

Google Finally Improves Security Of Gmail Connections As Consumer Watchdog Urged

John M. Simpson