Mobile Device Encryption Could Lead to a ‘Very, Very Dark Place’, FBI Director Says

by Dennis Fisher  Posted 10/16/2014
 
FBI Director James Comey said Thursday that the recent movement toward default encryption of smartphones and other devices could “lead us to a very, very dark place.” Echoing comments made by law enforcement officials for the last several decades, Comey said that the advanced cryptosystems available today threaten to cripple the ability of intelligence and law enforcement agencies to gather vital information on criminals.
Speaking at an event at the Brookings Institute in Washington, D.C., Comey discussed the challenges that strong encryption present to law enforcement agencies, specifically when it comes to lawful interception of cell phone communications. Recent changes by Apple and Google to their mobile operating systems have introduced the ability for iPhones and Android devices to be encrypted by default. The big issue, however, is that the companies don’t hold the encryption keys, so they can’t decrypt users’ devices, even when presented with a court order or warrant.
Comey said that he understands users’ desire for security and privacy, but that those needs shouldn’t come at the expense of national security or law enforcement.
 
 
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