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Geek Guard to the Rescue
Ant sends a link about the Geek Guard proposal that is floating around. Supposedly technology companies would form the backbone of a fast-response technology force. But Verizon was and is part of the problem with regard to communications, not part of the solution. A lot of technically-inclined people and groups like NYC Wireless did assist in lower Manhattan after Sept. 11, and they're still helping out businesses and people with no internet/phone connections and not even an ETA from Verizon on when Verizon might get around to hooking them up. If Verizon fulfilled their Geek Guard duties with all the rapidity that they, say, install DSL lines for competing DSL providers, they would have "rescheduled" their disaster response three times and we'd have an appointment for early November right now.
I would imagine that during and/or immediately after a disaster, certain forms of technology would be very useful, if not critical. A geek squad sounds like an interesting idea but sometimes resources are scarce. I wonder what the government or some companies would say if rescuers, etc. were using cloned cell phones (if they were the only means of communication) or pirated software (to keep missing and dead lists) if there were little or no funds. True geeks would find a true technical solution. Just a thought.
icksnay on hacking my boxsnay.
I am horrified about going to bootcamp and shooting things. But I am quick to draw with a keyboard. This story gave me an idea. Why not make something like the Tech Reserves? Something similar to the army reserves. The government brings you in 1 day a week and two weeks a year for training and other informative seminars. Then when the need arises (Cyber Warfare or whatever need), we help the government in the way we can best? I think military service with the knowledge you aren't going on the front lines but you are helping is something to think about.