Clipper’s Controversy

Clipper's Controversy refers to the debate surrounding the Clipper chip, developed by the U.S. government in the early 1990s. This chip was designed to provide secure communication by using strong encryption while allowing government access to encrypted data via a backdoor. Critics argued this weakened security and privacy, as it could be exploited. Supporters believed it balanced security needs with privacy. The controversy highlighted broader issues about surveillance, personal privacy, and government authority, raising questions about security technologies and their implications for civil liberties. Ultimately, the Clipper chip was abandoned due to public opposition and technical shortcomings.