WikiLeaks' Assange Calls Facebook 'Most Appalling Spying Machine Ever'

PC Magazine ^ | May 2, 2011 | Leslie Horn

[decimon]

WikiLeaks chief Julian Assange has made a lot of enemies, and you can now add Facebook to that list.

In a recent interview with Russia Today, Assange said "Facebook in particular is the most appalling spying machine that has ever been invented."

"Here we have the world's most comprehensive database about people, their relationships, their names, their addresses, their locations, their communications with each other, their relatives, all sitting within the United States, all accessible to U.S. intelligence," the whistle-blowing site's editor continued.

Assange asserted that he believes many major U.S.-based tech companies are actively helping the government spy on people.

"Facebook, Google, Yahoo, all these major U.S. organizations have built-in interfaces for U.S. intelligence," Assange said. "It's not a matter of serving a subpoena. They have an interface that they have developed for us intelligence to use.

[firebrand]

True. But many freepers’ real names are known. And if there were ever any reason to get a warrant of some kind, your real name could be known to law enforcement in no time.

Facebook is a step forward into the light, for sure. It’s somewhat like being a journalist, except without the talent. : )

[firebrand]

An amazing amount can be found in public records. You used to have to go to City Hall or the equivalent to get it.

I just don’t worry about any of this anymore. I feel so strongly about my country and my political (and religious)beliefs are so strong that I am willing to state them and let the chips fall where they may in the hope that I will be able to persuade others. I have lost friends and relatives over my political beliefs, so what else can happen? (Don’t answer . . .)