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Military on Alert for Killer Coke Cans

DigitalLogic writes "There's a new security threat at some of the nation's military bases -- and it looks uncannily like a can of Coke. All I can think of is that a furby with a coke can must be the military's worse nightmare."

338 comments

  1. Is this really that bad? by jrj102 · · Score: 5, Insightful

    As usual, the post kind of misrepresents what the article is about... but that's just standard /.

    I think they are being reasonable, if a bit silly. The contest-winning Coke cans (which are clearly visually distinct from a standard Coke can) have an integrated cell phone and GPS device. About this, the spokesperson was quoted as saying "In the remote possibility a can were found in one of these [secured] areas, we'd make sure the can wasn't activated, try to return it to its original owner and ask that they activate it at home..."

    Why is this unreasonable? It's funny, sure... but not the example of misguided paranoia that it's made out to be.

    1. Re:Is this really that bad? by evil-osm · · Score: 2, Insightful

      Are you sure? the article is from CNN, and you can't get worse journalism/misrepresentation than that. On CNN everything is *high alert*.

      --


      E.

      Never rub another man's rhubarb - The Joker
    2. Re:Is this really that bad? by PedanticSpellingTrol · · Score: 1, Insightful

      What about Fox News, where it's all high alert, but don't worry because Glorious Leader will protect you.

    3. Re:Is this really that bad? by jrj102 · · Score: 2, Insightful
      "You can't get worse journalism/misrepresentation than [CNN]"
      Really? Every read WorldNetDaily?
    4. Re:Is this really that bad? by LostCluster · · Score: 3, Insightful

      This goes right next to the cases of people who get fired for bringing their new cell phone to work because their office is a security-tight "no camera zone" and their new phone just happens to be a cameraphone model.

      Yes, it's an overparanoid reaction, but it's one that was promised for people who bring in a threat to the security even if they didn't do it on purpose.

    5. Re:Is this really that bad? by gl4ss · · Score: 5, Insightful

      and then again, you took just the most sensible part of the article.

      "We've taken measures to make sure everyone's aware of this contest and to make sure devices are cleared before they're taken in" to restricted areas, she said."

      so they're telling to people that should know not to bring a phone into the areas that don't bring coke cans before you have made sure that it's just a coke can.

      it's a potential eavesdropping device, in the sense that it's a phone, but a quite much less than anything intentional could be. basically they're creating a big fuss over something that didn't need the pr(because now it's easier to intentionally smuggle something in, just put a can of coke next to it..).

      and further:
      **
      "But Bruce Don, a senior analyst at the Rand Corp. said the military's concern is rational and appropriate.

      "There's a lot of reason to worry about how that technology could be taken advantage of by a third party without Coke's knowledge," he said.""**

      so what it boils down to is some security firm pumping once again money from the gov(and paving the way for future pumping)...

      --
      world was created 5 seconds before this post as it is.
    6. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      You forget something:

      You have 12 soldiers and 12 coke cans. One of the coke can turns out to be a gps+cell phone. As a result 1 soldier dies of thirst.

    7. Re:Is this really that bad? by DAldredge · · Score: 2, Insightful

      If it was fox news, the story would have been interupted no less than 3 times with a Fox News Alert about a car chase or the peterson trial.

    8. Re:Is this really that bad? by argent · · Score: 1

      They also want personell to open the cans and make sure there isn't a GPS in them. That doesn't sound like they're thinking entirely straight.

    9. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 2, Insightful

      So "I didn't do it on purpose" should be a valid excuse now for breaking rules about security, which involves signing a contract? Hmm.. Think first, simple enough.

    10. Re:Is this really that bad? by CokeBear · · Score: 1

      If all they have is Coke they will die of thirst anyway, since the body uses more water to process the sugar in the Coke then it gets from it.

      --
      Reality has a liberal bias
    11. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Dude, you misspelled 'troll.'

      Might wanna see if Mr. Taco will change your username for ya.

    12. Re:Is this really that bad? by PedanticSpellingTrol · · Score: 0, Offtopic

      The usernames are capped at 20 characters... it let me put in "PedanticSpellingTroll" when I registered and then rudely truncated the last 'l'. I can log in with either spelling though... *sigh*

    13. Re:Is this really that bad? by Grant29 · · Score: 3, Funny

      Maybe they are looking for that new secret Coke, you know the C4 Coke... I hear it's more potent than the new C2 Coke.

      --
      Only 3 Gmail invitations left

    14. Re:Is this really that bad? by Jason1729 · · Score: 2, Insightful

      I read this a few days ago and when I saw it here it was obvious the submitter worked very hard to avoid letting a few facts spoil his fun.

    15. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1, Informative

      Not related to the topic under discussion I know, but my former platoon sergeant might disagree that Coke cans are not dangerous. His closest friend was killed in Vietnam on his very last patrol before rotating Stateside when he idly kicked a battered Coke can lying by the trail. It had been cleverly booby-trapped by the Viet Cong and he bled to death after it blew off his leg.

    16. Re:Is this really that bad? by ZBM-2 · · Score: 5, Informative

      We received this 'alert'. Actually,it was only an advisory to inspect cases of Coke to see if they contained a winning can. The can contains both a cell phone and a GPS beacon,neither of which can be brought into secure areas. The Furby scare was based on FUD,this is based on security regs. When you enter a secure area,you leave your cell,pager,PDA,laptop,etc,at the door.

      CNN pumped this up. There's zero panic about this.

      --
      ==== Warning:this poster contains subject matter that may be offensive. Flaming discretion is advised.
    17. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      The sugar may also be needed, though.

      Suppose I buy a 12-can box of Coke, put it unopened in our boat, and head off on an all-day trip. I
      specifically expect to have 12 cans of Coke, not 11. We're careful not to pull the last can out of
      the box until we're back approaching shore, mainly in case someone feels low blood sugar coming on.

      Of course, we now know to check the whole box before embarking. We've also generally had other forms
      of sugar, not just Coke, and we'll continue to do this. And we may be buying soda from a different
      company that doesn't play games with your expected amount of sugar (or liquid).

    18. Re:Is this really that bad? by Rufus88 · · Score: 4, Insightful

      This is not at all paranoia. A camera-phone is a camera. There are secure buildings, or buildings with secure rooms (like where I work), where you have to have a secret or top-secret clearance to get in. Bringing a camera in there is forbidden and a security violation. Anybody who works in such an environment, who is too stupid to realize what a no-no this would be, does not belong working there.

    19. Re:Is this really that bad? by Fizzl · · Score: 3, Insightful

      Would that count as irony?
      There was this pedantic storm of misuse of 'irony' just lately...

      "Nooo-o. That's just co-oin-cident-tial"
      -- Bender

    20. Re:Is this really that bad? by jnicholson · · Score: 1

      I used to drink Coke exclusively, and I can assure you that this isn't true.

      --
      "Do not drill any holes in your cat - it will not like it."
      -- Nick Davies
    21. Re:Is this really that bad? by TheOnlyCoolTim · · Score: 1

      So what happens if you find a winning can - does the army let you keep the prize?

      Tim

      --
      Omnia vestra castrorum habetur nobis.
    22. Re:Is this really that bad? by bl1st3r · · Score: 3, Informative

      I'm in the military and have received the warning about the coke can's. It's not that the military itself thinks the can's are dangerous, its just the fact that the area's that ARE on alert for them are area's in which cell phones and electronic equipment are restricted items.

      The premise of the coke contest is that you open the can, and Coca Cola fly's in with helicopters to bring you your prize. That is fine and dandy for civilians, but on a military base, you can't have Coke flying in helicopters and things.

      Not to mention the fact that the cell phone in the can could be used for the inadvertant disclosure of secret data. That is the threat, not terrorism or anything like that.

      --
      hrrm.
    23. Re:Is this really that bad? by NecroPuppy · · Score: 4, Insightful

      Exactly.

      When I went shopping for a new phone recently, it took 2 worker bees and a manager to figure out that when I said I didn't want a camera phone, that I really meant I didn't want a camera phone.

      One of those damn things would get me fired. And, if I were lucky, I wouldn't have federal charges filed against me.

      --
      I like you, Stuart. You're not like everyone else, here, at Slashdot.
    24. Re:Is this really that bad? by Jeff+DeMaagd · · Score: 1

      I think this is a valid concern, with ramifications that people will try but likely fail to stop completely. A camera phone could be used in locker rooms and send real-time images to someone's nudie web log, all without the consent of those observed. And it looks like a phone, not a camera.

    25. Re:Is this really that bad? by Cramer · · Score: 1

      The chopper is "for illustrative purposes only". Read the small print on the screen during the commercial. Remember the Pepsi Stuff (tm) promotion showing a harrier? Pepsi didn't have any such disclaimer and some kid collected enough points...

      I have no idea what's acutally inside the can. But I'm betting it's not your average nokia cellphone and an earthmate gps. It's most likely a cellular modem -- read: NO MICROPHONE -- and a dirt cheap GPS. Given the average shelf-life of a cell phone battery's charge, I really doubt it's a full cell phone.

    26. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      a great chinese man once told me, two wongs dont make a white.

    27. Re:Is this really that bad? by WormholeFiend · · Score: 1

      not only that, but usually, you cant even bring any wireless devices into secure places. at all.

      makes me wonder if someone could tap into your phone to gather EM transmitted data picked up from nearby electronics.

      i mean, why else would cellphones be banned from secure area?

    28. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      I work for Viet Cong, you insensitive clod!

    29. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Perhaps because someone could call out of a secure area with details of the interior or read out classified information. Or perhaps dial out to someone and leave it in your pocket so someone outside could listen in.

      Just because you have security clearence doesn't mean you are trusted.

    30. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Can't handle the truth, huh? Tough shit, Sparky.

    31. Re:Is this really that bad? by NanoGator · · Score: 0, Offtopic

      "What about Fox News, where it's all high alert, but don't worry because Glorious Leader will protect you."

      What about an off-topic mod?

      --
      "Derp de derp."
    32. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      ""There's a lot of reason to worry about how [Virus'es, Trojans] could be taken advantage of by a third party [The Mob, unscruples thieves, spammers] without [The US Public's] knowledge," he said.""**

      so what it boils down to is some [Macafee, Microsoft] pumping once again money from the [Citizentry, and businesses](and paving the way for future pumping)..."

      ---

      "Sorry, but according to our [paranoid] tests, you are trying to [spy on us] from an open HTTP proxy. Please close the proxy or ask [the FBI, CIA, Homeland Security, John Ashcroft] to do so, because open proxies are used to [Spy on] web boards like this one. If you have questions, mention that your proxy is at [censored] on port [censored]."

    33. Re:Is this really that bad? by NanoGator · · Score: 2, Interesting

      "When you enter a secure area,you leave your cell,pager,PDA,laptop,etc,at the door."

      It'll be watches before too long. Today you can buy a watch with a camera built in, another that has memory so you can drop computer data into it. Before long there'll be watches with 2-way radio bulit into them. (I'm talking about USA here, I'm aware that there are wrist-watch cell phones elsehwere.)

      Eventually the gov't is going to have to find a way to keep data secure with the assumption that people have all these devices. (Sadly, I do not claim to have the answer to that.)

      --
      "Derp de derp."
    34. Re:Is this really that bad? by siriuskase · · Score: 1

      Banning coke cans that might really be cell phones seems reasonable to me. Cell phone calls can be intercepted by rf-sniffer type devices (not as easy as in the analog days, but still doable). And how many times have you every received one of those mysterious phone calls initiated when a friend or acqaintance has accidentally sat on their phone and redialed without realizing it. I have overheard some really strange conversations that way. Imagine what they might have transmitted if they sat on a camera phone.

      --
      If you must moderate, please moderate as irrelevent, not something bad, because I'm sure someone will find this interest
    35. Re:Is this really that bad? by sentientbeing · · Score: 2

      theres a piece of software available for the nokia 7650. you can leave the phone hidden somewhere and send it a text message from another phone.

      the nokia takes a photograph on reception of the text then sends the pic to the sender. im sure it would just as easy to transmit audio. and maybe sometime in the future -video.

      theres also an application which i use regulaly which converts the phone to an IR remote for TVs and CD players.

      Its only a small stretch of the imagination that a package could be developed that potentially remotely receive IR data, from a laptop say, and record that.

      --

      ------
      beware he who would deny you access to information, for in his mind he dreams himself your master
    36. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Yeah, same here *pats huge belly*. :) I think I read somewhere that after a while you body gradually becomes resistant to the diuretic (spelling?) effects of caffeine. Which makes sense to me, considering if Coke (or Mountain Dew, in my case) drained more water from your body than it replenished, I'd have definitely noticed after a month or two of drinking exclusively Dew (8+ cans a day!) and eating foods with negligible water content...

    37. Re:Is this really that bad? by Brandybuck · · Score: 1

      I keep hearing this, but I never see it. Can you point me to some objective verifiable sources that Fox News ever said that?

      --
      Don't blame me, I didn't vote for either of them!
    38. Re:Is this really that bad? by prof_peabody · · Score: 1

      Nope, there is a way they can be secure about this sort of thing... Make all top secret areas nude only. Makes it hard to hide things, plus think of all the witty puns...

    39. Re:Is this really that bad? by siriuskase · · Score: 1

      For illustrative purposes, pretend I'm a bad guy. What's to prevent me from obtaining one of these cans and modifying it to work differently than Coke intended? If I'm clever, I can completely replace the contents with something of my own devising, a transmitter, a GPS, or if I'm old fashioned, maybe a bomb. Sure, it's unlikely, but bringing an unknown radio transmitter into a restricted area sounds like a bad idea to me.

      --
      If you must moderate, please moderate as irrelevent, not something bad, because I'm sure someone will find this interest
    40. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      When you want a plural word, don't add an apostrophe!

      Area - Singular
      Areas - Plural
      Area's - Singular Possessive
      Areas' - Plural Possessive


      IT'S NOT THAT HARD!

      Mods, please don't mod this up or down. I had to correct him, it wasn't my choice. I would have lost sleep otherwise.

    41. Re:Is this really that bad? by budgenator · · Score: 1

      My little brother once worked at a private company, doing non-millitary stuff; where he had to store his street clothes, take a shower and dress in company provided work clothes on the other side of the showers, leaving work involved the reversal of the above.

      --
      Apocalypse Cancelled, Sorry, No Ticket Refunds
    42. Re:Is this really that bad? by Red+Alastor · · Score: 1

      You hide it and activate it at home.

      --
      Slashdot anagrams to "Sad Sloth"
    43. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Maybe it's because your brother smells like a dumpster. Sheesh no one wants to work next to that smell!

    44. Re:Is this really that bad? by budgenator · · Score: 1

      what if I think that it's a pretty slick idea to copy the "winning" coke can, have it programmed to call my number and pay off the coke guy to make sure that its planted in the machine across the hall from the secure area that I wish to spy on?

      --
      Apocalypse Cancelled, Sorry, No Ticket Refunds
    45. Re:Is this really that bad? by Dachannien · · Score: 1

      This goes right next to the cases of people who get fired for bringing their new cell phone to work because their office is a security-tight "no camera zone" and their new phone just happens to be a cameraphone model.

      It seems like a camera-phone is an even worse security threat than either a cell phone or a camera alone, because it combines visual surveillance with instant transmission.

    46. Re:Is this really that bad? by Cramer · · Score: 1

      What's to stop you from doing that to a normal, non-promo, can?

      I think they're being a little too paranoid. It's not like you won't notice it's not a real can of coke the instant it's in your hand. By that reasoning, it's very unlikely you'll find one of those cans in a drink machine. (if you were loading the drink machine, would you put it there? Or keep it for yourself/a friend?)

    47. Re:Is this really that bad? by Pig+Hogger · · Score: 0, Offtopic

      What about a Dubya mouthpiece mod???

    48. Re:Is this really that bad? by timpaton · · Score: 2, Interesting
      This goes right next to the cases of people who get fired for bringing their new cell phone to work because their office is a security-tight "no camera zone" and their new phone just happens to be a cameraphone model.

      That's no joke.

      In my job (automotive industry) I often go on to sites where cameras are banned outright - whether it's an antique view-camera or a camera-equipped mobile phone. There's commercial concerns, and big incentives at stake...the car magazines would love a spread of grainy pixelated photos of a year-after-next model whizzing around a test track (to say nothing of the styling department at competitor companies), and unscrupulous photographers have made big money by providing such pictures.

      On entering these sites, we're told in no uncertain terms that if we're found to have any kind of camera, we'll be removed, and banned for life from any company site.

      I recently bought a new mobile phone. I had to turn down a very attractive package deal because the phone happened to have a camera built in. I need to have my phone with me at customer sites, and I can't afford to be blacklisted.

      I don't know how they'd cope with somebody who had a photographic memory and some artistic talent...

    49. Re:Is this really that bad? by SvnLyrBrto · · Score: 0

      The thing is, it's becoming increasingly difficult to find cellphones without cameras built in. At the same time, more and more employers are asking that you carry a cellphone. See where this is going?

      Myself, I don't have a camera-phone (yet) because the quality on the things is sub-par compared to my dedicated camera. My next phone probably WILL have a camera on it though, because, by then, it'll probably be standard even on the free/cheap phone that you get for renewing your contract.

      And, quite frankly, pinheaded control-freak bureaucrats should not be allowed to slow the wheels of progress, simply because they have a corncob up their ass about "policy".

      cya,
      john

      --
      Imagine all the people...
    50. Re:Is this really that bad? by NanoGator · · Score: 4, Insightful

      "What about a Dubya mouthpiece mod???"

      I wasn't defending Bush. Frankly, I'm just plain sick and tired of the Bush vs. Kerry debates here in thinly disguised on-topic babble.

      There's a radio station I listen to that's conservative in the evening, and liberal in the morning. I drove home after work listening to badmouthing of Michael Moore's movie. I haven't seen it yet, but I could tell that they were being so slimey about it. Instead of saying "Here is where it lied, and why he should have known better", they took a single quote and blew it way out of proportion. "Michael Moore says that the United States spreads misery, have they forgotten how we beat back the Nazis?" Uh okay.

      So the following day I was driving to work, and the big news story was that the US handed over control to Iraq. I listened to 10 minutes of "How can they call it sovereign when we still have troops there? Why is it called sovereign when the US troops don't have to obey their laws despite the obvious reasonable reasons why that law would be in place?" Blah blah blah. The democrats can't see the good in anything, and it is very fucking tiring to listen to.

      I'm so tired of the uneducated mudslinging being fired from both sides. I'm so tired of both sides being so extreme. (I like how somebody can be comfortable in their extremism without knowing anything about the other side's views.) And I'm getting really tired that I can't get away from it, even on Slashdot. Instead of modding somebody insightful because they have a point, instead it's the Moderator's way of saying "I agree".

      I'm half tempted to just go into hibernation until this dumb election's over. The only reason I don't is I'm quite sure that because half the country feels one way, and the other half feels another, that half the country will end up bitching over frivilous issues and, in some cases, pure fiction.

      --
      "Derp de derp."
    51. Re:Is this really that bad? by argent · · Score: 1

      What if you do? The "winning" coke can DOESN'T look much like a can of Coke. You'd do better hiding your cellphone in a real can of Pepsi.

    52. Re:Is this really that bad? by sohp · · Score: 2, Funny

      Those military surplus apostrophes though, can we do without them?

    53. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      I'm sorry to tell you that your mother died after inserting a booby-trapped dildo up here ass.

    54. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      If you think you are so clever, why would you do that to *winning* can of Coke? How about collecting the fucking price, mate? Or maybe you dress like bad guy 24/7 and people call the cops when they see you?

    55. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Perhaps because someone could call out of a secure area with details of the interior or read out classified information.

      Um, couldn't you just memorize the room layout, or the classified stuff? Making you do that delays you getting the information out by exactly how long it takes to get out of the room/building.

    56. Re:Is this really that bad? by darkmeridian · · Score: 1, Redundant

      This goes right next to the cases of people who get fired for bringing their new cell phone to work because their office is a security-tight "no camera zone" and their new phone just happens to be a cameraphone model. Yes, it's an overparanoid reaction, but it's one that was promised for people who bring in a threat to the security even if they didn't do it on purpose. Corporate espionage is a great hazard for leading edge firms, not just government "spook" operations. A Japanese firm once sent a person into an American firm pretending to be a collegiate documentary-maker who want actually taking hi-res video of the American firm's designs. But wait! I work there! Isn't this akin to testing the shoes of an airline pilot for explosives? Well, at work, you may just walk by a secure area whose documents you do not have access to. Just to drop by to see a friend, for example, who buzzed you in. Much harder to lean over a paper and read/memorize it than to take a picture of it. Corporate espionage is real. Think about it. Post-It pads make millions. The glue procedure takes seven steps to apply. If you can get rid of one, imagine the money you will make. Etc.

      --
      A NYC lawyer blogs. http://www.chuangblog.com/
    57. Re:Is this really that bad? by siriuskase · · Score: 1

      That's the whole beauty of this scheme! Since Coke already has cans with radio electronics in circulation, then I don't need to make my weapon look and feel like a real Coke. It only has to fool the victim who knows no more than I do what a prize Coke looks and feels like. So, it's not a real Coke soft drink, but I'm gambling that the victim can't tell the difference between my radio coke and an authentic Coke radio coke.

      --
      If you must moderate, please moderate as irrelevent, not something bad, because I'm sure someone will find this interest
    58. Re:Is this really that bad? by cheekyboy · · Score: 1

      excellent way to 'fire' a co-worker you hate, or your boss, just slip them a 'camera' into their pocket, bingo, watch the CEO get fired, ahahhahah

      Seriously, though, if anyone wanted to 'steal' secrets, they would plan/learn how to do photographic memory, you cant 'prevent' that can you. I can imagine now, super small implant cameras that fit into your NOSE, camera in one nostral, battery in the other, just squeeze your nose to take a shot, no one is going to examine your snotty nose are they :-)

      --
      Liberty freedom are no1, not dicks in suits.
    59. Re:Is this really that bad? by cheekyboy · · Score: 0, Flamebait

      And people/skeptics say, "government types" cannot keep a secret, thats why aliens are not real, because if they were it would be leaked out.

      Bolony, theres a buncho secrets, and none of you pinko sad ass nerds who work for CIA/NORAD will ever squeel on the aliens (or are they earth people from the future) coz you'll get SHOT ON SITE ;v)

      --
      Liberty freedom are no1, not dicks in suits.
    60. Re:Is this really that bad? by siriuskase · · Score: 1
      I doubt I would, I might let my significant other win the prize, then I'd sell the can to Bin Laden for a billion bucks with assurances that no trail would lead from him to me or vice versa.

      But, I suspect that not all electronic cokes are winners, they would all look and feel similar, with the button on the side and all. All I really need to do is make something that fools the victim into pressing the button. It certainly doesn't need to look like a real Coke, it probably doesn't even need to look like an Authentic Prizewinning Electronic Coke (APEC). It only needs to make the victim push the button, preferably while he is in or about to enter a secure area.

      Although I've been making this up in jest, the more I think about it, the dumber this Coke promotion seems to be, even dumber than New Coke if you remember that.

      --
      If you must moderate, please moderate as irrelevent, not something bad, because I'm sure someone will find this interest
    61. Re:Is this really that bad? by mausmalone · · Score: 1
      CNN pumped this up. There's zero panic about this.
      I'd be panicked... the Coke rep is named Mart Martin, obviously an al Quaeda alias!
      --
      -=-=-=-=-=
      I'd rather be flamed than ignored.
    62. Re:Is this really that bad? by Dausha · · Score: 1

      Hmm, when I enter secured areas, I turn my cell phone off and make sure my PDA can't access data, like the regs at the DIA tell me.

      --
      What those who want activist courts fear is rule by the people.
    63. Re:Is this really that bad? by gcaseye6677 · · Score: 1

      I don't know what the huge deal is, considering all new cars look basically alike anyhow. Is there no more creativity in the auto industry? Designers, if you are reading this, there is a market for cars that are not curvy with stupid ovals and wierd angles all over the body. And all new cars do NOT need to copy the design of Mercedes!

    64. Re:Is this really that bad? by NichG · · Score: 1

      If it's really that much of a razor-thin margin, what happens if you have 12 real cans, but have an unexpected 2-hour delay?

    65. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Easier to not take the cell phone in. I know I always forget to turn the damn thing off. The frist time I was in a secured area (before I got my clearances, I was escorted), the project manager walked in. I was talking with one of the other project guys, and a cell phone goes off. He gives me an evil look, and I just pointed at the manager...

    66. Re:Is this really that bad? by sydres · · Score: 1

      amen brother! my friends call me conservative but as far as I am concerned I am neither Democrat nor Republican, I am a U.S. Citizen, an AMERICAN if you will. I make my own decisions and sling no mud. If more people In the U.S. would feels this way then we would not have childish politicians bitching at each other. and could get something real done. Maybe make this country what it promises to be;"The land of the free, and the home of the brave".

    67. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      You would get fired for one accidental violation? Who the hell do you work for? I know I would probably be in deep shit if I brought a camera phone on site, but fired? I doubt it. Now, if I brought it into a top-secret area, that might be different. But if it is a single accidental incident, I don't think that you would have charges filed for that.

    68. Re:Is this really that bad? by Lehk228 · · Score: 1

      the thinkgeek lighter-cam would be perfect for covert shit, assuming the quality of the images is good

      --
      Snowden and Manning are heroes.
    69. Re:Is this really that bad? by matt4077 · · Score: 0, Offtopic

      Please stop using apostroph's for plural-s. It hurt's.

    70. Re:Is this really that bad? by titzandkunt · · Score: 1


      "...I don't know how they'd cope with somebody who had a photographic memory and some artistic talent..."

      Prabaly a big sign by the entrance gate:

      NO CAMERAS
      NO RECORDING DEVICES
      NO IDIOTS-SAVANTS

      They check for this by asking everyone who enters "Who's on first base?". Works every time...

      T&K.

      --
      Political language ... is designed to make lies sound truthful and murder respectable...
    71. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      There are a number of related incidents in Japan that I can think of. First of all, almost all cell phones now have cameras. (There are very few exceptions to this.) I carry a slightly older model that doesn't have one, because I simply didn't want the extra bulk, or pay for the extra gadget. When I upgrade though (after the phone starts to die) I'll pretty much be forced to buy one with a camera.

      Now, in a slightly more related story, my brother in law drives a tank in the Japanese Self Defense Force (equivalent to the millitary, they just don't call it that). He carries his fancy camera-phone everywhere, even during training. I don't know if this is against the rules (I have a hunch it is) but apparently it's a wide-spread practice. Now the REALLY funny part is, there is currently a fad amongst fellow tank pilots to buy phones that not only have a camera, but that have a GPS system. (Dunno the case in the U.S., but there are a few models that have GPS in Japan.) The reasoning isn't the "coolness" factor, but the fact that these tanks don't have a GPS system in them, and the SDF relies on old-school navigation techniques. (I should add that there probably is a benefit in this concept, especially since Japan does NOT control the GPS satelites, which is a big issue in a time of conflict.) Anyhow, during night-time training, a lot of them get lost. This alone is laughable, but it's the reason they got GPS phones... so they could navigate and stay out of trouble. Now is that crazy or what? No paranoia here, but maybe there should be!

    72. Re:Is this really that bad? by xtheunknown · · Score: 3, Informative

      Actually, this is all a moot point. Any truly sensitive information is stored in a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF). A SCIF is protected such that no radio signals can enter or leave the facility. You are searched both when you enter and leave the facility and if you were wearing a camera watch or carrying a camera cell phone, they would be taken and stored until you left. If you walked out of a SCIF and they found one of these devices that they missed on the way in, it would be taken from you and inspected and you would be investigated for bringing it inside in the first place.

      That said, the Coke can poses no threat to sensitive information, even if it could transmit sound, which it can't.

      --

      They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.
    73. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      coz you'll get SHOT ON SITE

      Ooh, no, I don't think they'd do that. They'd take you somewhere OFF-SITE to shoot you - saves paperwork..

    74. Re:Is this really that bad? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      CNN pumped this up. There's zero panic about this.

      Yes, but now thousands of Slashbots (and CNN.com readers) are aware of a new Coca Cola marketing campaign. I didn't know about this before. I suddenly feel the urge to win a SUV. Where's the Coke vending machine?
      Mission accomplished.

    75. Re:Is this really that bad? by Rufus88 · · Score: 1

      no one is going to examine your snotty nose are they :-)


      No, but they might ask why you spend so much time sniffing top-secret documents.

    76. Re:Is this really that bad? by Fred_A · · Score: 1

      Well how's that for paranoia : haven't you heard of that experiment where you put a soldier in a glass of coke and by the morning he's gone ?

      spooky huh ?

      --

      May contain traces of nut.
      Made from the freshest electrons.
    77. Re:Is this really that bad? by centauri · · Score: 1

      >Anybody who works in such an environment, who is
      >too stupid to realize what a no-no this would
      >be, does not belong working there.

      Unless they're working in a military prison.

      --
      Don't blame me, I voted for Durga.
    78. Re:Is this really that bad? by bl1st3r · · Score: 1

      Eh, it was like, 3AM when I posted this after staying up all night so I wouldn't be late for PT. Cut me a little slack. I know better, but it's not like I can go back and edit things. And who proofreads comments?

      --
      hrrm.
    79. Re:Is this really that bad? by ACPosterChild · · Score: 1

      Yeah, except the majority of people are too disinterested and lazy to actually use their brains. They want the exciting sound bite, non the in-depth discussion. If you ask most people why they have their particular opinion on a hot topic, they can rarely back it up, they're just parroting an opinion they thought was news.

    80. Re:Is this really that bad? by ACPosterChild · · Score: 1

      The democrats can't see the good in anything, and it is very fucking tiring to listen to.

      In their defense, it seems to me that the Democratic party has really been hurt in the last few years because they try to be fair and not mud-sling. The R's, on the other hand, pull out all the stops and character assasinate as SOP, and it works. It's been working for Bush since he ran for governor of Texas and called the incumbant a drug-using lesbian alcoholic the week before the election. It won him the election in a fairly big upset. I think the Ds have learned their lesson and walked off the high-road to join the Rs in the muddy gutters.

    81. Re:Is this really that bad? by sydres · · Score: 1

      just the way big brother wants it

  2. Furby has been dealt with by Sartak · · Score: 5, Funny

    When was the last time anyone saw Furby, really? I thought the military already neutralized that threat.

    1. Re:Furby has been dealt with by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 4, Funny

      nah, he's just hiding in the back of some cave behind a pile of WMD's laughing histerically to himself.

    2. Re:Furby has been dealt with by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 4, Funny

      I hear that the US military killed everyone at Ken and Barbie's wedding during the Furby War ... and Elmo doesn't like being tickled any more.

    3. Re:Furby has been dealt with by noidentity · · Score: 1

      When was the last time anyone saw Furby, really? I thought the military already neutralized that threat.

      Apparently an autopsy was performed afterwards.

  3. Their complaints are justified. . . . by OverlordQ · · Score: 5, Insightful

    *tinfoilhat*
    What's to keep some other spy agency/group from disguising a coke can that looks just like the innocent 'outgoing call only + gps' with a 'bi-directional + gps + other nasty goodies' can?
    */tinfoilhat*

    --
    Your hair look like poop, Bob! - Wanker.
    1. Re:Their complaints are justified. . . . by TheSpoom · · Score: 1

      Of course they're justified. I'm glad that the US military (as an ally of Canada) is taking appropriate measures to protect against bugs in their security meetings. It's nothing against Coke.

      --
      It's better to vote for what you want and not get it than to vote for what you don't want and get it.
      - E. Debs
    2. Re:Their complaints are justified. . . . by sik0fewl · · Score: 1

      Only Coca-Cola knows the real coke formula. The spying device would be spotted in no time (first sip). :)

      --
      I remember when legal used to mean lawful, now it means some kind of loophole. - Leo Kessler
    3. Re:Their complaints are justified. . . . by Cecil · · Score: 5, Interesting

      disguising a coke can that looks just like the innocent 'outgoing call only + gps' with a 'bi-directional + gps + other nasty goodies' can

      "Uh, sir. Your coke can is ringing."

      "Hello? Oh, hi Osama. No, I'm sorry, I can't tell you any of our secret plans. Thanks for calling, though." ... I think you meant a phone that can connect to numbers other than Coke's prize center, not bi-directional.

    4. Re:Their complaints are justified. . . . by OverlordQ · · Score: 1

      Umm, no I meant bi-direction as in an eavesdropping device. Look up infinity transmitter, I'm sure the govt/agencies have nice modern hi-tech versions of these.

      --
      Your hair look like poop, Bob! - Wanker.
    5. Re:Their complaints are justified. . . . by lpp · · Score: 4, Interesting

      "Uh, sir, is there a hiss coming from your Coke can?"

      - as a near (but not quite) inaudible hiss becomes the only tell tale trace of a Sarin attack.

      I think a remotely triggered attack hidden within an otherwise innocuous looking can of Coke is *exactly* what would be meant by bi-directional.

    6. Re:Their complaints are justified. . . . by Pharmboy · · Score: 2, Funny

      thank god for tinfoil hats, but make sure yours is not actually ALUMINUM foil, since it offers no real protection. (that was part of another Al Queda plot, to distribute aluminum foil hats to people to make them think they were protected, when in reality it had no effect, allowing them to spy on our brain waves. Another story for another day..)

      First the qualifier, I'm not a soldier, but I was an airman: It would not be that hard for a soldier gone bad to smuggle something in a base if they wanted to. The hard part is going bad without OSI/DIS/FBI/CIA knowing it. They knew (know) shit about me that I didn't even know, and that was during peace time.

      --
      Tequila: It's not just for breakfast anymore!
    7. Re:Their complaints are justified. . . . by iamplupp · · Score: 1

      why bother with something that draws that much attention to itself, why not just disguise the "bi-directional + gps + other nasty goodies"-thingey as a coffeycup or something?

    8. Re:Their complaints are justified. . . . by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Actually, Aluminum doesn't stop spying on brainwaves, but it does work in blocking incoming traffic, so to speak. Are you sure every thought in your head came from you?

      On the other hand, tin works best with allowing your mind to function in privacy. If you want best of both worlds, having aluminum as the outer layer and tin as the inner layer is the best configuration. Just make sure the shiny side points outwards, as I hear a misconfigured AFDB/TFMSD hybrid can cause some nasty brainwave feedback that can give you a headache that lasts weeks.

    9. Re:Their complaints are justified. . . . by Cyberop5 · · Score: 1

      There used to be a certain Nokia cell phones that can be hacked to eavesdrop. You set it to automatically answer incoming calls and turn off the ring; then short two of the pins on the bottom (1 and 4 I think) so the display goes blank.

      The phone looks like its off, but you dial the number and can hear what's going on in a room. Drop it in a plant or tape it beneath a desk; you'll have about 5 days until the battery dies.

      --
      Urgo: "I want to live. I want to experience the universe and I want to eat pie!"
      Jack: "Who doesn't??"
    10. Re:Their complaints are justified. . . . by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      The hard part is going bad without OSI/DIS/FBI/CIA knowing it. They knew (know) shit about me that I didn't even know, and that was during peace time.

      But how did you know that they knew stuff about you you didn't know?

      And how do you know that they don't already know that you know that they know stuff about you that you didn't know?

      Or don't you know?

    11. Re:Their complaints are justified. . . . by Pharmboy · · Score: 1

      yes.

      --
      Tequila: It's not just for breakfast anymore!
    12. Re:Their complaints are justified. . . . by DMUTPeregrine · · Score: 1

      Just put a can filled with sarin. Kill lots of people, the trigger? Open the can. Place it in a store. Easy. Damn, I sure hope no one manages to do this one.

      --
      Not a sentence!
    13. Re:Their complaints are justified. . . . by Lobsang · · Score: 1

      What's to keep some other spy agency/group from disguising a coke can that looks just like the innocent 'outgoing call only + gps' with a 'bi-directional + gps + other nasty goodies' can?

      Hmm, perhaps the fact that "The Coca-Cola Company" makes money by selling consumer products, and by doing anything against the US govt/society/MO they would be just hurting themselves?

      I think all this is just something that was not envisoned when the original rule of no cell-phone/GPS was created. Cell phones probably weighed a few pounds and looked more like a tennis shoe back then. With the rapid advancement of micro-eletronics and integrated personal communication devices, a lot of similar issues are bound to come to surface in the coming years.

    14. Re:Their complaints are justified. . . . by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Truly you are not worthy of your hat. If some other spy agency were going to go this route, they would disguise the can as an actual coke can and not put a big red button on the side. Indeed, how do we know this hasn't already happened? If not by gov't spy agencies, then by Coke itself for purposes of covert market research?

    15. Re:Their complaints are justified. . . . by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Why don't you just get *any* phone, call it up, answer by pushing the button, smash the display, and then sellotape it under the table. works just as well.

    16. Re:Their complaints are justified. . . . by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      You guys really are worrywarts. If someone really god damn wants to kill you to the point that it means more to them than their own life, they will be successful. It's not worth panicking and destroying your own lives about. Get over it. If you really feel the need to save millions of lives, ban cars.

  4. Not *that* funny by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Insightful

    I don't really find this funny. I mean it's funny, but in the back of my mind
    I just know that this is the tip of a big scary iceberg.

    In the future I bet almost all devices, maybe even ALL soda cans, will contain
    miniature computers with wireless capabilities. And troublemakers (evildoers?)
    will be able to hack into them.

    You chuckle now but did you think 10 years ago that there would be such a
    thing as a smartphone? Bluejacking? Nokia phone viruses? MP3s, PDFs, or PNGs
    that could exploit your computer?

    So yeah, like TFA says, it's just common sense, nothing to get excited about,
    but definitely something to think about.

    Do you believe Coke when they say "it can only call us" and "there's no way to hijack it"? I sure don't.

    1. Re:Not *that* funny by mrtroy · · Score: 3, Insightful

      Do you believe Coke when they say "it can only call us" and "there's no way to hijack it"? I sure don't.

      Yes.

      Oh...an explanation you ask?
      Well coke could put a little switch between the battery and the electronics in the can so that only turns on once you open it. So this magical can gets discovered, and they have to activate it before anything happens. I dont think you can hijack electronics with no power.

      As for "it can only call us"...that could be easily setup.

      The only legitimate concern would be some sort of fake coke cans. But then you could do that anytime, not just during a contest, and fill it with anthrax...

      But nobody was banning coke a month ago!

      --
      [I can picture a world without war, without hate. I can picture us attacking that world, because they'd never expect it]
    2. Re:Not *that* funny by s20451 · · Score: 5, Interesting

      There was a promotion a few years ago involving an Ontario dairy. A few personal-sized cartons of milk were wired with a speaker and electronics, that were supposed to make a "moo" sound when opened (thereby indicating that you had won a prize).

      Somebody apparently got one of these at a food court in downtown Toronto, and left it behind (I guess the prize wasn't that impressive). Somebody else saw this carton of milk with wires and electronics and called the bomb squad. The building was evacuated, much to the amusement of the local news media (once they found out what happened).

      --
      Toronto-area transit rider? Rate your ride.
    3. Re:Not *that* funny by SoSueMe · · Score: 3, Insightful
      Do you believe Coke when they say "it can only call us" and "there's no way to hijack it"? I sure don't.

      As soon as somebody says "You can't do x with y technology.", the countdown timer in the back of my mind starts going "10-9-8-7-6...".

      When I read this on Friday, I thought "I've got to get a closer look at these."
      I haven't seen any in the stores here yet.
    4. Re:Not *that* funny by RobotRunAmok · · Score: 3, Funny

      I don't really find this funny. I mean it's funny, but in the back of my mind
      I just know that this is the tip of a big scary iceberg


      Yeah, but on a semi-holiday slow-news day at Slashdot, it's a frickin' bonanza, no?

      Ya got yer US military, Orwellian eavesdrop issues, Big Silly American Corporate Marketing Angle, and -- wait for it -- the grand prize for the promotion is an SUV! I mean, what's not to belittle/complain about/be otherwise snarky regarding? If this story didn't come over the wires, we'd have to write it ourselves...

    5. Re:Not *that* funny by Froug · · Score: 1

      You chuckle now but did you think 10 years ago that there would be such a thing as a smartphone?

      Yes I did, actually.

      Bluejacking?

      No, but then that's brand-specific. I was fully expecting eavesdropping, hijacking, and other malicious misuse of wireless data communications should they ever become commonplace. But I also expected that solid security would be implimented far faster and more widely than it actually has.

      Nokia phone viruses?

      Again, not brand-specific, but I fully expected cell phones to fall prey to malware as they became smarter. I also remember friends dismissing the idea on the basis that phones aren't computers, even after I'd remind them that there's a small computer inside the phone.

      MP3s, PDFs, or PNGs that could exploit your computer?

      MP3s, PDFs and PNGs can't exploit my computer. If they can exploit yours, perhaps it's time for you to switch platforms.

      Do you believe Coke when they say "it can only call us" and "there's no way to hijack it"? I sure don't.

      I wouldn't trust those cans, either. Even if it's only Coke that's supposed to receive through those things and assuming the cans aren't hacked, Coca Cola, Inc isn't supposed to hear classified information any more than your average citizen.

    6. Re:Not *that* funny by pyrrhonist · · Score: 4, Funny
      the countdown timer in the back of my mind starts going "10-9-8-7-6...".

      You'll never be allowed on a military base with one of those in your head.

      --
      Show me on the doll where his noodly appendage touched you.
    7. Re:Not *that* funny by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      LOL man, you made my day! :)

    8. Re:Not *that* funny by seann · · Score: 1

      us canadians are halaritY!!!!!!!!

      --
      I'm a big retard who forgot to log out of Slashdot on Mike's computer! LOOK AT ME.
    9. Re:Not *that* funny by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      MP3s, PDFs and PNGs can't exploit my computer. If they can exploit yours, perhaps it's time for you to switch platforms.

      Are you sure??
      The evil ones... They are always busy..
      Find things they do.. Things that can do evil...
      Of this evil we may not yet know...
      That is why I must be careful...
      That is why I switched to Debian Stable Then I realized no matter how far I run, exploits are always there to haunt me..
      DSA-411-1 mpg321 -- format string vulnerability
      DSA-435-1 mpg123 -- heap overflow
      DSA-286-1 gs-common -- insecure temporary file

      Do not lose hope, there is still a way...
      Delete 'em! Delete 'em all! Files can't exploit your computer if there is no software for processing them.

      NEVER AGAIN will they take glory in my pain!
      --(Still psychologically damaged from Windows 98)--

    10. Re:Not *that* funny by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Probably other militaries locating a ship is trivial given the amount of RF they put out (or maybe not given some of the stealth designs that seem to be pushed), but how much is there a risk posed from similar devices?

      * RF in clothes and products -- short distance, likely very limited given the tech to detect would be better served locating the entire ship

      * GPS in cell phones -- this seems worrisome, since most cell phones would seem to have to have a locator in them. If they are on, they're detectable. Seems rather convenient to locate a code and a signal to track ship maneuvers.

    11. Re:Not *that* funny by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Are you on windex? First and foremost companies are under pressure to REDUCE the costs associated with packaging. Second, when would a typical coke can ever require a cpu/comms? Maybe I'm just being a pessimist, but there are certain things that just don't need to be computerized and probably never will. Coke cans, kleenex, tp, and condoms definitely fall under that category.

      Yeah it would be great to be the first geek on your block to be able to claim that his Taco Bell burrito wrapper runs linux, but come on.

      Added cost to produce + no advantage + multiple disadvantages(shipping breakages, lawsuits when grandma's pacemaker dies because her coke can had a spazm) = No go.

      Sorry man, you won't be compiling the 3.0 kernel in a can anytime soon. If it's any consolation though you can take a laptop with you to the bathroom and compilie a kernel ON the can.

      "In the future I bet almost all devices, maybe even ALL soda cans, will contain
      miniature computers with wireless capabilities."

    12. Re:Not *that* funny by Iffy+Bonzoolie · · Score: 1

      Hmm... How can a PNG exploit your computer?

      -If

      --
      Run a pencil-and-paper RPG campaign with your far-off friends: Gametable!
  5. Big Soda is watching by UnCivil+Liberty · · Score: 4, Interesting

    "You can win, but you can't hide" as their promo stand ups in grocery stores read. Items tracking you, just a hint of waht is to come with RFID. Be afraid.

    --
    Distributed proteome folding @ WorldCommunityGrid.org
    Team Slashdot - Members:#1 Run Time:#1 Points:#1 Results:#1
    1. Re:Big Soda is watching by Neophytus · · Score: 1

      Only with rfid you cann't be identified from the next house down, let alone from space.

    2. Re:Big Soda is watching by UnCivil+Liberty · · Score: 1

      Combine RFID and GPS in the name of national security (hey, if the public didn't question the PATRIOT Act what are the chances they are going to question this), boom, let the Minority Report flashbacks begin.

      --
      Distributed proteome folding @ WorldCommunityGrid.org
      Team Slashdot - Members:#1 Run Time:#1 Points:#1 Results:#1
    3. Re:Big Soda is watching by Ziviyr · · Score: 1

      I'll take my three minutes of soda now, thank you.

      --

      Someone set us up the bomb, so shine we are!
    4. Re:Big Soda is watching by ifwm · · Score: 1

      "question the PATRIOT Act"

      Except more and more of the Patriot Act is getting shot down every day.

      By the way you say "the public" didn't question the Patriot Act. Speak for yourself (you're part of "the public" right?) I know I sure had plenty to say about it.

    5. Re:Big Soda is watching by Pharmboy · · Score: 1

      "You can win, but you can't hide" as their promo stand ups in grocery stores read. Items tracking you, just a hint of waht is to come with RFID. Be afraid.

      So, Ashcroft is going to make it law that everyone must drink Coke then? Speaking of tinfoil hats....

      --
      Tequila: It's not just for breakfast anymore!
    6. Re:Big Soda is watching by UnCivil+Liberty · · Score: 1

      Except more and more of the Patriot Act is getting shot down every day.
      A great deal of damage has already been done.

      By the way you say "the public" didn't question the Patriot Act. Speak for yourself (you're part of "the public" right?) I know I sure had plenty to say about it.
      An overwhelming amount of the public didn't question the PATRIOT Act, and I'd say even now that a majority of the public still confides in it, mostly because they are uniformed. Remember, if you question the President you are un-American and civil-libertarians all wear tinfoil hats to these people. Is it not possible they could pull a fast one on us again?

      --
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    7. Re:Big Soda is watching by UnCivil+Liberty · · Score: 1

      No, Ashcroft doesn't drink coffee because of the caffeine so I can't imagine him being a huge Coke fan, but the abuse of technologies like these is what you should keep an eye on.

      --
      Distributed proteome folding @ WorldCommunityGrid.org
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    8. Re:Big Soda is watching by ifwm · · Score: 1, Interesting

      First of all, why didn't you answer my question?

      Secondly, I don't think people who question the President are un-American, and I'd wager more people are like me in that regard than not. As far as "a majority of the public" confiding in the Patriot Act, most of the public doesn't even know waht it does, so how can they "confide" in it. What does that mean anyway that the public "confides" in the Patriot Act? They call it up and tell it whent they're having a bad day? They tell it about a cheating spouse?

      Lastly, no one believes civil-libertarians wear "tinfoil hats" just paranoid wackjobs like you.

      (Should wackjobs be hyphenated? Wack-jobs?Hmm)

    9. Re:Big Soda is watching by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      "Interesting"?! Mods on crack again. It's a flame (and quite un-baited) and not much else.

    10. Re:Big Soda is watching by UnCivil+Liberty · · Score: 1

      First of all, why didn't you answer my question?
      You posed many questions, my apologizes for overlooking this one. Yes, I did oppose the PATRIOT Act and as well as making financial donations to the ACLU and EFF to help overturn it I tried to get the word out of the potential ramifications.

      Secondly, I don't think people who question the President are un-American, and I'd wager more people are like me in that regard than not.
      I never said "ifwm thinks people who disagree with the President are unpatriotic", so I'm sorry if you misread it that way, but there was/still is a great deal of backlash against disagreeing with the popular opinion in a time of war. Look at the way the right has labeled the Dixie Chicks and Michael Moore anti-American.

      As far as "a majority of the public" confiding in the Patriot Act, most of the public doesn't even know what it does, so how can they "confide" in it. What does that mean anyway that the public "confides" in the Patriot Act? They call it up and tell it whent they're having a bad day? They tell it about a cheating spouse?
      So much of the public supports the PATRIOT Act for that exact reason, they don't know what is in it, because surely if they did they would not support such an insane trampling of our rights. Say it will stop terrorists and you've got the bandwagon on board, no questions asked.

      Lastly, no one believes civil-libertarians wear "tinfoil hats" just paranoid wackjobs like you.
      How am I a whack job?

      --
      Distributed proteome folding @ WorldCommunityGrid.org
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    11. Re:Big Soda is watching by ifwm · · Score: 1

      I believe that's the pot calling the kettle black my friend.

    12. Re:Big Soda is watching by ifwm · · Score: 1

      "making financial donations to the ACLU and EFF to help overturn it I tried to get the word out of the potential ramifications"

      So, you paid dues to an organization you were already a member of, and you made some posts on a web board. Really went above and beyond didn't we.

      "Look at the way the right has labeled the Dixie Chicks and Michael Moore anti-American."

      Can't argue about the Dixie Chicks, they got hammered, but I honestly think it was their timing, not what they said that got them in trouble. As far a Moore, most of the backlash against him is not in relation to his politics, but his methods. Many people accuse him of twisting the truth (others of downright lying.) You can make up your own mind about that.

      "So much of the public supports the PATRIOT Act"

      Again with the Patriot Act nonsense. Ok, here's what happened, try to keep up. A poorly thought out idea was passed into law, in the heat of the moment. In the course of time, the law was challenged, and is piece by piece being declared unconstitutional. That is EXACTLY how the system works. The fact that some people had it rough for a while is a shame (honestly, I mean that) but the system works. It's working as we speak, yet somehow the Patriot Act is still a boogeyman you try to use to frighten people. You're as bad as the administration that cries "TERROEISM!!!" every time they need something done.

      "How am I a whack job"

      To paraphrase "RFID, GPS ...Minority Report flashbacks"

      What (aside from your inherent paranoia) leads you to believe this will happen? People have been trying the same chicken-little crap since this country was founded, but last time I checked I wasn't a slave. I don't have people tracking my every move. I'm free to say what I want, with little fear of reprisal.

      You see, the difference between you and me is simple. You think the Government runs the country, and could eventually control us if it wants to. I believe that America is a place where
      the People do the talking, and no matter how much the government tries, that will never change. Americans aren't sheep. Sure we do hotheaded, poorly planned, straight up stupid things sometimes (Patriot Act, McCarthyism, Slavery). But we always get it right in the end. This is no exception.

    13. Re:Big Soda is watching by UnCivil+Liberty · · Score: 1

      So, you paid dues to an organization you were already a member of, and you made some posts on a web board. Really went above and beyond didn't we.
      While I had been a long time supporter of the ACLU (non-finacially), I didn't make my first donation until after 9/11, and other than Slashdot (which I didn't join til recently, have been reading for 3 or 4 years) I only post on one other site (college hockey). I mostly talked to the teen voters that I work with, friends, their families, etc.

      Again with the Patriot Act nonsense. Ok, here's what happened, try to keep up. A poorly thought out idea was passed into law, in the heat of the moment. In the course of time, the law was challenged, and is piece by piece being declared unconstitutional. That is EXACTLY how the system works. The fact that some people had it rough for a while is a shame (honestly, I mean that) but the system works. It's working as we speak, yet somehow the Patriot Act is still a boogeyman you try to use to frighten people. You're as bad as the administration that cries "TERROEISM!!!" every time they need something done
      It's something that should have never been passed in the first place and that fact that it was should frighten people.

      What (aside from your inherent paranoia) leads you to believe this will happen?
      National ID cards, the recent Supreme Court cases on IDs and ISPs reading your email, CARINVORE, denied FOIA requests, etc. Is it imminent, no, but is it something that could happen down the line, I hope not.

      You see, the difference between you and me is simple. You think the Government runs the country, and could eventually control us if it wants to. I believe that America is a place where the People do the talking, and no matter how much the government tries, that will never change.
      I hope to god it continues to stay the way you describe it, the reason I care and make an issue of it is because I want it to stay that way.

      We are more alike than you choose to believe.

      --
      Distributed proteome folding @ WorldCommunityGrid.org
      Team Slashdot - Members:#1 Run Time:#1 Points:#1 Results:#1
  6. I'm having a "Just Say No" flashback by Rude+Turnip · · Score: 0

    Coke Kills!

  7. Market competition! by JohnFromCanada · · Score: 3, Funny

    This is the new marketing strategy for Pepsi.

    1. Re:Market competition! by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Of Course .. It also helps when Coke/Pepsi parent company are the same .. Why else do you think they can mention each others product in commercials but nobody else can? The coke vs pepsi wars have generated more sales than no war at all.. Also both brands sort of represent society.. Coke Elite .. Pepsi Poppy .. Coke Old .. Pepsi New .. Republican Democrat .. ahh balance .. or something like that ;)

    2. Re:Market competition! by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      "Of Course .. It also helps when Coke/Pepsi parent company . . . . ."
      The parent post was clearly a joke.

  8. Pepsi by ffejie · · Score: 2, Funny
    This is clearly a ploy by Pepsi. What's next? Sprite cans having AK-47s stashed in them?

    /sarcasm off

    --
    Disagreeing with me does not mean you get to mod me troll.
    1. Re:Pepsi by UnCivil+Liberty · · Score: 5, Funny

      I believe Dave Barry has prior art on this, Year in Review.

      JUNE:
      17 -- True Item: A consumer in Seattle reports finding a hypodermic syringe in a can of Diet Pepsi.

      JULY:
      1 -- A consumer in Detroit reports finding a switchblade knife in a can of Diet Pepsi.

      AUGUST
      3 -- A consumer in Baton Rouge reports finding a machete in a can of Diet Pepsi.

      SEPTEMBER
      1 -- A consumer in Boston reports finding an AK-47 assault rifle in a can of Diet Pepsi.
      5 -- In a move strongly opposed by the National Rifle Association, the California State Legislature passes a law requiring a five-day "cooling-off" period on purchases of Diet Pepsi.

      OCTOBER
      1 -- A consumer in Phoenix reports finding a nuclear submarine in a can of Diet Pepsi.

      NOVEMBER
      1 -- A consumer in Detroit reports finding a full combat division of the Iraqi army in a can of Diet Pepsi.

      DECEMBER
      1 -- A consumer in Orlando reports finding the Ark of the Covenant in a can of Diet Pepsi.

      --
      Distributed proteome folding @ WorldCommunityGrid.org
      Team Slashdot - Members:#1 Run Time:#1 Points:#1 Results:#1
  9. Argh.... by cjsnell · · Score: 0, Troll


    This story is so "last week". This was on FoxNews.com days ago. Couldn't the editors find something, amongst the piles of rejected story submissions, that is more newsworthy than this?

    1. Re:Argh.... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

      This was on FoxNews.com days ago.

      Give it a day or two, and it will be on /. again too.

    2. Re:Argh.... by hugesmile · · Score: 1

      hey, I figured this was so old that there would be 100 'THIS IS A DUPE' complaints. Be happy! Have a coke and a smile.

    3. Re:Argh.... by LostCluster · · Score: 2, Informative

      For those outside of the USA... today's not a business day here because the "4th of July" proper fell on a Sunday, so today is effectively running on a weekend schedule for most things. That's most of the reason why there's not much news coming out today...

    4. Re:Argh.... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Couldn't the editors find something, amongst the piles of rejected story submissions, that is more newsworthy than this?

      No. No they can't. Nor can they find anything current, because they are lazy ass-suckers.

    5. Re:Argh.... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      don't worry. for those of us (like about 90% of the world's population thankfully) outside of the usa, we are constantly reminded about your holidays. we can't escape americanism no matter where we go. happy? i'm not. i don't want to be a wanking american. stick your patriotism up your ass, the rest of the world is fed up with it.

      and to be on topic, this story broke last week, well before the pretty terrorist backed fireworks displays went off. dupe? naw. lame slashdot management (can't call them editors, as they don't edit stories)? as usual.

    6. Re:Argh.... by bluekanoodle · · Score: 1
      Actually at the rate that we're going, we're going to be sticking our patriotism up your ass next Thursday at 3 pm.

      See you then!

    7. Re:Argh.... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      "out of my cold dead hands"...

      are you first in line for that too?

  10. There really is a problem here... by LostCluster · · Score: 4, Interesting

    Sometimes, the military doesn't like the location of troops being revealed to anybody. They ban all cell phones and GPS devices that they don't control from being with such groups.

    So, should a "winning" can be brought on such a mission, you've got a security hole... sure, the message is encrypted so that only Coca-Cola Prize Patrol knows where you are and hears what you say to them, but Coca-Cola Prize Patrol doesn't have security clearance now, do they?

    1. Re:There really is a problem here... by Tumbleweed · · Score: 1

      > but Coca-Cola Prize Patrol doesn't have security clearance now, do they?

      Hey, don't be so quick to make assumptions. :)

    2. Re:There really is a problem here... by fred911 · · Score: 1

      "Sometimes, "
      the rest of the time they just jam all communications!

      --
      09 F9 11 02 9D 74 E3 5B - D8 41 56 C5 63 56 88 C0 45 5F E1 04 22 CA 29 C4 93 3F 95 05 2B 79 2A B2
    3. Re:There really is a problem here... by theLOUDroom · · Score: 1

      Sometimes, the military doesn't like the location of troops being revealed to anybody. They ban all cell phones and GPS devices that they don't control from being with such groups. So, should a "winning" can be brought on such a mission, you've got a security hole... sure, the message is encrypted so that only Coca-Cola Prize Patrol knows where you are and hears what you say to them, but Coca-Cola Prize Patrol doesn't have security clearance now, do they?

      Holy shit!

      You just unknowingly figured out the soltuion to this whole problem...

      If the gov't were to give the Coca-Cola Prize Partol a security clearance, that would solve everything! ;)

      In reality, this is a non-issue. These can DON'T look like normal coke cans, and have a button you must press to activate them.
      If you've got people running around secure areas on a military base pressing buttons they're not sure about, you got much bigger problems than the "prize-patrol".

      --
      Life is too short to proofread.
    4. Re:There really is a problem here... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      I would think that it's a non-issue because soldiers generally won't carry a carbonated soft drink in their packs while they're out on patrol. Imagine, running for cover, hitting the deck, and suddenly.. BOOM! You feel wet, and cold... you're losing blood... you call out for the medic, who comes running over.. and laughs at you, because your Coke can exploded, and is leaking every where.

  11. More deadly than coke? by Haydn+Fenton · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    Nowhere near as bad as Crack!!

  12. What's so different by Dark+Bard · · Score: 4, Insightful

    GPS systems are intergrated into new celphones. Are those banned on military bases as well? The military is going to have to deal with a brave new world in electronics. What about car GPS systems? Are they banned from bases? It's a knee jerk reaction on the GPS front. As to it having a celphone for spying, are celphones banned from all meetings? My guess is most Generals are armed with a celphone. Celphone jammers are realitively cheap and availible. It might be a smarter and more pratical thing to simply use them in conference rooms and not sweat the Majors new lapel phone let alone coke can.

    1. Re:What's so different by LostCluster · · Score: 4, Interesting

      In a "restricted area", usually the military doesn't want any electronics device that they don't control going in. Cans of Coke are tolerated, but cell phone links to the civilian world aren't...

      Besides, even if you had a winning can on a military base, it's not like Coca-Cola's Prize Patrol is going to be able to deliver your SUV to you on the base... they most likely won't be allowed in.

    2. Re:What's so different by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      No. Cellphones are not allowed in restricted areas period.

    3. Re:What's so different by john82 · · Score: 5, Informative

      As to it having a celphone for spying, are celphones banned from all meetings? My guess is most Generals are armed with a celphone.

      Yes cellphones are banned from secured areas. That's all cellphones. So if one were to show-up on a military installation carrying a new generation phone with camera, where there are big freakin' "NO cameras, or recording devices allowed" signs, then you are a dumbf*ck idiot who needs to spend some time in the brig.

      Note that few such places allow a PDA these days either. Unless of course you want them to significantly disable it for you.

      Celphone jammers are realitively cheap and availible. It might be a smarter and more pratical thing to simply use them in conference rooms and not sweat the Majors new lapel phone let alone coke can.

      Then again, you're in the military. Might be a hell of a lot smarter to follow some simple orders and save the taxpayers on several fronts.

    4. Re:What's so different by Pharmboy · · Score: 1

      Then again, you're in the military. Might be a hell of a lot smarter to follow some simple orders and save the taxpayers on several fronts.

      Adding to your comment, you can tell the guys who have never been in the military, cant you? They can be quite persuasive. First time you bring a phone into a secure area, and you spend the next seven days in CC (Correctional Custody, a type of jail for the civilians here) and spend all day, every day, picking up cigarette butts all over the base, you won't accidently bring that phone again.

      Its been a couple decades, but I assume its the same thing: They don't fuck around with security, and they will convince you to take it as seriously as they do. All and all, this IS a good thing.

      The idea is not to save taxpayer money, however, its to keep discipline in the ranks. Its a simple but important order. Since disobeying sucks really bad, you are better off obeying.

      --
      Tequila: It's not just for breakfast anymore!
    5. Re:What's so different by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      "GPS systems are intergrated into new celphones. Are those banned on military bases as well?"

      Basically, yes. It's damned inconvenient when you're not allowed to buy a cellular telephone without a camera attachment (becuase "it's new and desirable"), yet you're not allowed to bring a camera onto the site where you work. Not that anybody [security dept.] seems to care...

    6. Re:What's so different by Goldenhawk · · Score: 4, Interesting

      GPS plus a cellphone is no big deal - we already know where all the bases are anyway. However, I work at a military facility that strictly bans camera-phones from the flight line (where the planes are parked) - because there's quite a bit of sensitive material there - designs we don't want our enemies to see, or even our allies.

      Cell phones are NOT banned from all meetings. Far from it. See, quite a bit of the stuff that gets discussed is completely banal - "Okay, have your secretary call mine and set up a meeting to discuss this issue further" - but you can bet they're strictly banned from any conversation that is at all sensitive.

      Now, about the Coke cans. The real issue is NOT the GPS receiver, or the cell phone technology - I'm pretty sure it's got something to do with not wanting some Coke reps in a big white van full of interesting gadgets to try crashing the gates at a sensitive military facility. You want to get visited at home, no problem - leave the can there. Just don't invite them HERE, thank you very much. Again, it's common sense.

      And yeah, I suspect there are some latent concerns about nefarious uses. But I doubt that's any more of a concern than for any other cell phone, or Blackberry two-way pager, or whatever.

      It's common sense, people. Contrary to Hollywood's view, the US military is neither incompetent nor full of powermongers. It's mostly a lot of very dedicated, very intelligent people trying their best to defend and strengthen the good 'ol USofA, and that includes defense against reasonably possible intelligence-gathering hardware. Because face it, it's a lot cheaper to steal a good design than create it from scratch.

      --
      --Brandon / Split Infinity Music

    7. Re:What's so different by stephenbooth · · Score: 1
      What about car GPS systems? Are they banned from bases?

      I don't know what sort of bases you've been on so you're experience might be different to mine. Those that I've been on, if you're in a civillian or otherwise untrusted vehicle, usually you park up in the outer car park, walk to the inner gate and are picked up by a vehicle that has come from within the base to be taken to your destingation. These are also the sort of places where any deliveries are unloaded on a dock well a way from any sensitive locations, unpacked, examined in detail (by hand & eye, X-ray, sniffer &c) and then repacked before being allowed onto the base. Paranoid maybe but, to quote a well known book title, "Only the paranoid survive!" It's often better too be a bit too cautious than not quite cautious enough.

      Stephen

      --
      "Don't write down to your readers, the only people less intelligent than you can't read" - Sign on Newspaper Office Wall
    8. Re:What's so different by DigitalCrackPipe · · Score: 1

      GPS systems are intergrated into new celphones. Are those banned...
      Yes, in some places. The entire point of this article is that in areas that cell phones are banned, cell phones in coke cans are also banned. Common sense. The only reason this was ever broadcast (and hence covered by the media) is so that responsible parties would be made aware that their 12-pack might have a cell phone hidden in it. Just a friendly remider so nobody is caught unaware by coke.

      And concerning using cell phones for spying, it certainly is possible with some phones, so there's no reason not to treat this cell phone as being as much or more dangerous than any other cell phone. If you don't bring it with you, you don't really need to know if it has exploitable security flaws, do you?

    9. Re:What's so different by sfjoe · · Score: 1

      It's mostly a lot of very dedicated, very intelligent people trying their best to defend and strengthen the good 'ol USofA...

      Mostly? Yes, I'd agree that it is mostly dedicated people. However, it doesn't take many powermongers to stick me with a multi-billion dollar bill for useless weaponry.

      --
      It's simple: I demand prosecution for torture.
    10. Re:What's so different by nFriedly · · Score: 1

      thats probably the best post i'v read here. deserves a score of 6

    11. Re:What's so different by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      It's often better too be a bit too cautious than not quite cautious enough.
      I think this simple concept is a bit too simplistic for psudeo-intellecutauls to embrace...they require long and complicated things so as to make themselves look smart while discussing.
      read the posts...ignorance is Americas greatest threat

    12. Re:What's so different by Rob+the+Bold · · Score: 1

      They'll let them in, otherwise they'll hafta answer to the Coca Cola Corporation!

      --
      I am not a crackpot.
  13. Coke can bombs by immel · · Score: 1

    I saw this show on the History channel once where some guys used a soda can to conceal a small explosive charge. I also saw a movie in which a terrorist uses a cell phone to detonate some C4. Not only will terrorists use coke cans to hide explosives, they will use them to detonate them as well!

    --

    10 Bits= $.25
    100 Bits= $.50
    110 Bits= $.75
    1000 Bits= 1 byte
    1. Re:Coke can bombs by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      some guys used a soda can to conceal a small explosive charge

      Small cans of beans have the same effect on me.

    2. Re:Coke can bombs by c0ldfusi0n · · Score: 1

      An easy way is to get a little thing they call Stash Cans -- another great american invention available at your local Weed store.

      --
      A computer makes it possible to do, in half an hour, tasks which were completely unnecessary to do before.
  14. Coke gives you: by iCat · · Score: 0

    Life!

  15. Not a big problem by Gyorg_Lavode · · Score: 3, Informative

    Considering the number of times I've seen someone's cell phone go off in a classified meeting, I don't think this is that serious a problem. Hell, I've seen the deputy CIO's phone go off.

    --
    I do security
  16. Report to The Computer at once. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    INCIDENT: Pre-verts and communists have created a new device made to infiltrate the NorthAm-complex. The device in question is made to ressemble a common beverage container.

    ORDER: report to the computer
    CLEARANCE: infra-red and above

    The computer is your friend. Trust the computer.

    1. Re:Report to The Computer at once. by kfg · · Score: 2, Funny

      Pre-verts and communists have created a new device made to infiltrate the NorthAm-complex.

      But, Anonymous Coward, if that is your real name, if you shoot it you'll have to answer to the Coca-Cola company.

      KFG

  17. Overreacting is SOP by John+Jorsett · · Score: 5, Funny

    There are certain military facilities I visit where I have to surrender my calculator "because it has memory and you might use it to remove classified communications." Meanwhile, the local support staff is wheeling entire desks and filing cabinets in and out without the guards looking at them twice.

    Don't think about it, it'll just make you crazy.

    1. Re:Overreacting is SOP by Zorilla · · Score: 2, Funny

      There are certain military facilities I visit where I have to surrender my calculator "because it has memory and you might use it to remove classified communications."

      I wonder if you'd lose your security clearance if you told us the classified information in question was "BOOBLESS"

      --

      It would be cool if it didn't suck.
    2. Re:Overreacting is SOP by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      There are non-military government and commercial facilities I visit where the same rules are enforced. No writeable media (CD-Rs, USB flash sticks, CF cards), no cell phones, no PDAs, laptops get screened going in and out to make sure they have the same amount of RAM if they're allowed at all.

    3. Re:Overreacting is SOP by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      "There are certain military facilities I visit where I have to surrender my calculator "because it has memory and you might use it to remove classified communications." Meanwhile, the local support staff is wheeling entire desks and filing cabinets in and out without the guards looking at them twice.

      Don't think about it, it'll just make you crazy."

      A military subcontractor I worked at in the 1980s had all the floppy drives removed from 170 just purchased desktop computers (making them worthless for the intended purpose) for "security reasons". Three years later laptops with floppies are approved for us to carry with us anywhere we go. I was told don't make waves, ignore the illogic.

  18. Problem is complex... by evilviper · · Score: 2, Insightful

    The real problem is that guards don't have any way of knowing what a device does, when it's in disguise. Forget these cans, and think about someone intentionally trying to sneak a device in... It might look real, but have electronics sealed inside.

    The answer is pretty obvious though... Everything should be x-rayed, or MRI-scanned to verify that it is what it's supposed to be. Or, perhaps microwaving everything that is not supposed to be an electronic device would be adequate.

    These prize cans are just a symptom of the problem.

    --
    Slashdot gets worse every day... Pipedot: News for nerds, without the corporate slant
    1. Re:Problem is complex... by UnCivil+Liberty · · Score: 1

      Or, perhaps microwaving everything that is not supposed to be an electronic device would be adequate. Warm Coke? Yuck!

      --
      Distributed proteome folding @ WorldCommunityGrid.org
      Team Slashdot - Members:#1 Run Time:#1 Points:#1 Results:#1
  19. http://killercoke.org/ by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    http://killercoke.org/

  20. It's funny by ObsessiveMathsFreak · · Score: 1, Troll

    The military is really protective about their own privacy, but when it comes to snooping in on the regular communications of you and me, why, what is this privacy you speak of?!

    Maybe they just don't want people to listen in on how many screw ups they keep making or how many trillions they've blown on torturing iraqis

    --
    May the Maths Be with you!
    1. Re:It's funny by LostCluster · · Score: 2, Insightful

      Basic infromation warfare...

      - You want to know what the enemy knows.
      - You want to make sure the enemy doesn't know what you know.

      It's all about intercepting the enemy's communications, and making sure that can't intercept yours.

    2. Re:It's funny by crmartin · · Score: 1

      For someone who uses a tag of "may the maths be with you", you seem to have a little numeracy problem: $1.1 trillion is in the close neighborhood of the entire federal budget.

      UNless you're trying to claim that the entire federal government shut down to fund a few prison guards pointing at peepees and laughing?

    3. Re:It's funny by GregChant · · Score: 1

      For someone who uses a tag of "may the maths be with you", you seem to have a little numeracy problem: $1.1 trillion is in the close neighborhood of the entire federal budget.

      According to the Queen's English trillion is used for the american equivalent of a billion, and billion is used for the american equivalent of a trillion. So, if in America, 1.1 trillion is the annual budget, a Briton would say the annual budget is 1100 trillion, or 1.1 billion. The English-speaking world is not Americentric.

    4. Re:It's funny by crmartin · · Score: 1
      Sory, son, but you've got your terminology backwards. For the British, a "billion" is a million million; a US billion -- a thousand million -- is called a "milliard." A British "billion" is what we call a "trillion", 1e12, not vice versa; a British trillion, 1e18, we call a "quintillion."

      But thank you for playing.

      (Check Mathworld for the details.)

    5. Re:It's funny by ObsessiveMathsFreak · · Score: 1

      By trillion I meant a thousand billions or a million millions. 1,000,000,000,000

      Now I just gleaned the information from the article, that there was a $1.1 trillion dollar hole in the DOD finances. I found the ticker rather coll, and unnerving.

      In any case the federal governments total revenue is of the order of $2 trillion dollars. However this says nothing of state and 'other' revenues. Also the military-industrial complex, as is well know, accounts for ~40% of all US government expenditure, most of which appears to be going on coke can seisure, surveillence on US citizens, high tech space research and certain things I can't mention as I will be blasted as a troll but suffice to say involve a level of tech and sophistication ancient neolithicians would not have found difficult to come by. Also a fair amount of this budget is probobly spent covering up just how big it is in case anyone starts to notice.

      --
      May the Maths Be with you!
    6. Re:It's funny by crmartin · · Score: 1

      So what you're saying is that you're totalling all government expenditures at the Federal, State, and local levels, allocating more than half of it to the military -- which means you're totalling in things like VA hospitals and the CERT -- and then announcing it's all being used to point at peepees.

      All rightie, then.

      Gee, I can't imagine why you might think you might get modded as a troll.

    7. Re:It's funny by ObsessiveMathsFreak · · Score: 1

      It seems the Military Industrial complex FUD budject is a little healthier this year, and considering this thread has decended way off topic, Perhaps it should be cut Here are the^H^H^Hsome facts

      --
      May the Maths Be with you!
  21. yes, this is a security concern by Doppler00 · · Score: 5, Insightful

    There are many government agencies that have a zero tolerance for wireless devices, devices with data ports, microphones, cameras, or whatever being taken into secure areas that deal with classified material. When you're talking about something regarding national security, you can never be to safe about what is allowed in a secure area.

    And how would one automatically know that an unopened 12 pack case of soda had one of these devices in it? They wouldn't which is why the Military simply wants people to be aware of this. And who is to trust coke anyway?

    Here's a scenerio: let's say some people were having a top secret conference and they had a 12 pack of sodas sitting in the back somewhere for refreshments aftwards. What if the device is accidently activated during this time and it starts recording the conference? What then happens if some unscrupulous employeee at Coke thinks it's an interesting conversation and releases it on the internet? Sure, all this could be very, very, rare, but given the nature of some information it's absolutely not worth the risk.

  22. Silly story but.. by sirdude · · Score: 2, Informative

    I hate anything linking to CNN.. so here's the Wired article : Paranoia Goes Better With Coke

    1. Re:Silly story but.. by crazy_zulu · · Score: 1

      CNN used to keep me warm at night. Until the powers that be at SABC stopped it in favour of the old BBC.

      --
      ...and one flew over the cuckoo's nest.
    2. Re:Silly story but.. by sirdude · · Score: 1

      Their site sucks eggs.. You're lucky you've got the BBC now rather than a sensationalist propaganda machine :S

      And your english is bound to improve ;D

  23. USE YOUR HEAD by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    The major concern is why navy personel and/or Air force peronel who could give away their positions.

  24. All I wanted was a Coke! by ChartBoy · · Score: 2, Funny

    I can imagine being majorly ticked if I spent my last 75 cents on a Coke only to get a cell phone + GPS receiver in a can.

  25. Liquid Death by blankinthefill · · Score: 1

    I knew this stuff was bad the day I first heard rumors that they used the product to clean the engines of their trucks. Oh, and many police precincts carry a couple gallons to wash blood off of pavement.

  26. Questioning by thedogcow · · Score: 2, Funny

    In related news, Cokes' Hommies -
    a one Pepsi,
    a one Barqs,
    and a one Mr Pepper Ph.D.
    have been bought in for questioning.

    --
    Yes! I listen to NYC Speedcore and do math at 3AM. I suggest you try it too.
    1. Re:Questioning by Zorilla · · Score: 2, Funny

      Great, now "Doing it for Allah" now comprises of shaking up a Coke can and handing it to a buddy.

      FIZZZZZZZZ!....."Haha, you just got jihaded!"

      --

      It would be cool if it didn't suck.
  27. Call off the elections! Killer Koke Kans out ther! by ArsenneLupin · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    (x)

  28. Re: The game in your sig by John+Courtland · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    I like it, very fun, but you need more diverse questions. Is there any way to submit some?

    --
    Slashdot is proof that Sturgeon's Law applies to mankind.
  29. Sensationolist news headline by Zorilla · · Score: 2, Funny

    Sounds like the usual post 9/11 stuff on TV news:

    "What you don't know about Coke cans could KILL you! Coming up next...on FOX News!"

    --

    It would be cool if it didn't suck.
    1. Re:Sensationolist news headline by Sancho · · Score: 1

      Yeah, but if you go to the article, there's nothing about "killer cans" in there at all. That was all Slashdot.

      Kinda makes me sick--this is definately the most sensationalist headline Slashdot's ever posted... And here I thought the article would be about Killer Coke.

  30. I for one welcome our new Cola overlords. by khasim · · Score: 2, Funny

    Duran Duran
    -Too Much Information

    It's pumpin down the cable
    Like never seen before
    A cola manufacturer is sponsoring the war

    1. Re:I for one welcome our new Cola overlords. by zoloto · · Score: 1

      Holy crap man, that's awesome. I even have that self-titled album too! *slips it in*

    2. Re:I for one welcome our new Cola overlords. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Ugh.

      I don't know whether to mod you up for a fitting joke, or mod you down because you know Duran Duran lyrics.
      (I looked but I can't find the -1, Retro has already Gonetro mod.)

  31. It's true. by sekzscripting · · Score: 3, Funny

    SLASHDOT IN TWO WEEKS:

    "Hacking the coke can. Part 1."

    1. Re:It's true. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0
      SLASHDOT IN TWO WEEKS:

      "Hacking the coke can. Part 1."


      And in three weeks someone has made Linux run on it.
  32. eh by dangerz · · Score: 2, Insightful

    Come on, seriously think about it.

    When you open a can of Coke (I don't drink Coke, so it's all you), you throw that can away as soon as you are done. What use is there to put any electronics into every soda can?

    It'd be a huge waste of money. I doubt Coke cares to know where every single can of theirs is going.

    --
    The greatest experience we can have is the mysterious.
    - Albert Einstein
  33. Civilians can, but... by fluch · · Score: 2, Funny
    "The can is dramatically different looking," he said. The cans have a recessed panel on the outside and a big red button. "It's very clear that there's a cell phone device."

    Coca Cola is speaking here for civilians, but probably the army knows best about the capabilities of their military people... ;-)

  34. It's called covering one's ass. by user+no.+590291 · · Score: 2, Informative

    Yes, it seems ridiculous to outlaw Furbys and Coke cans on base--but it's less ridiculous than having to say, "Well, no sir, General, we hadn't considered that possibility. Yes, sir, I agree that I am grossly incompetent. Sir, I will get that regulation promulgated right away, sir." Even worse is the outside chance that there could be a breach and having to answer to the press.

  35. vending machines by DoctorDeath · · Score: 0

    So I take it the US military is going to remove all Coke vending machines? I mean if you shake the machine because it ripped you off and it accidentally activates one of these cans...

    --
    Sig temporarily out of service.
    1. Re:vending machines by crmartin · · Score: 1

      Actually, you usually don't find vending machines inside the kind of classified facility that cares about a cell phone. You have to leave the controlled area to get a coke.

    2. Re:vending machines by stanmann · · Score: 1

      No, but you might find a refrigerator that could be stocked with a case of soda...

      SO now the case must be checked before stocking.

      --
      Food not Bombs is a nice platitude but it breaks down when you notice that the Bombees are usually well fed
  36. And this is our by Bruha · · Score: 1

    Military Intelligence in action. Seems it has only gotten worse since I left the service 6 years ago.

    1. Re:And this is our by downbad · · Score: 1

      Not really. The liberal press just took it and ran with it. It's not like there's going to be a new Homeland Security division to handle suspicious Coke cans. Know what I mean?

    2. Re:And this is our by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Not this week, at least.
      It'll take a couple of days to approve the funding.

    3. Re:And this is our by Scratch-O-Matic · · Score: 1

      Try this headline on for size:

      Military bans recording and communicating devices from sensitive areas, unless they look like soda cans or furry toys.

      I don't know what you did in the military, but hopefully it didn't involve security or classified information.

      --


      Evil is the money of root.
  37. I had one of those cans by Orion+Blastar · · Score: 4, Funny

    I smashed it and threw it away. I wanted soda, not some darn cell phone!

    Just like that bag or all purple M&M's I got, or the chipless Chip O' Ohoys bag I got. Quality control for these companies must really stink?

    --
    Remember, Slashdot does not have a -1 disagree moderation, and no, troll, flamebait, and overrated are not substitutes.
  38. Change Security Procedures... by Maljin+Jolt · · Score: 2, Funny

    Drink beer.

    --
    There you are, staring at me again.
    1. Re:Change Security Procedures... by markan18 · · Score: 1

      Beer is not safe too, coors lite cans are bugged too.

      Warning, turn off javascript and auto redirect, those poor bastards at marketingmag.ca enforce compulsory registration. Thanks god, compulsory registration is still easily bypassed.

  39. Really.. by spacecadetglow · · Score: 3, Insightful

    I really don't see if this could be a problem. If someone is in a sensitive area and they are aware of what the can contained, then they should have the common sense to wait until later to open the can.

  40. Why is the army scared of Coke? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Coke is badass! The U.S. couldn't handle Somalia, but Coke is going right in!

  41. That is it by foidulus · · Score: 1

    /. really needs to add a "tinfoil hat" topic to it's topic list. Complete with awesome graphic of course!

  42. We're Paranoid By Profession. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Interesting

    OK, sorry to have to post this as an AC, but kinda forced to...

    The job of a security manager is to be paranoid. Pure and simple.

    I'm not allowed to have a cellphone at work... or a pager ( not just a 2-way pager, ANY pager). No writable media permitted, under any circumstance.

    ( Yeah, that's right-- I can get arrested for forgetting to leave my USB keydrive in my car in the morning. )

    Is it paranoia? No. It's 'heightened operational security'. Clearances only go so far-- look at the $%$%tards like Ames and Hanssen.

    Obviously, they've missed a significant chunk of people with any ad campaign for this contest-- I go thru 2 cases of Coke a week, and I only heard about the contest last week.

    Without knowing what the GPScans looked like, how would you keep them out of a 'secure' facility???

    1. Re:We're Paranoid By Profession. by gl4ss · · Score: 3, Insightful

      "Without knowing what the GPScans looked like, how would you keep them out of a 'secure' facility???"

      the same way you would be supposed to keep NORMAL CANS FITTED WITH A GSM PHONE INSIDE out of the secured facility - if you can't do that then what kind of security you have in the first place?

      you know, it's not that hard to jam a phone in a can.

      what next, black plastic bag warning: it could have anything inside! also clothes are banned, and body cavities.

      --
      world was created 5 seconds before this post as it is.
    2. Re:We're Paranoid By Profession. by jcuervo · · Score: 1

      <blockquote><i>also clothes are banned, and body cavities.</i></blockquote>

      Time to break out the plastic cement.
      <br>

      --
      Assume I was drunk when I posted this.
    3. Re:We're Paranoid By Profession. by GISGEOLOGYGEEK · · Score: 1

      I had my body cavities banned once.

      let me tell you.

      OUCH.

      --
      George Bush + Linux = "I will not let information get in the way of the fight against Windows"
    4. Re:We're Paranoid By Profession. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      You can't bring writable media in? Wtf? I can bring in whatever kind of media I want (granted it is only sercret, not ts). Bringing it out is a completely different story. You should be able to bring the USB keydrive in, but you won't be able to take it out.

    5. Re:We're Paranoid By Profession. by Lars+T. · · Score: 1
      Without knowing what the GPScans looked like

      Well, it looks just like an ordinary Coke can - to the people who mistake wedding parties for a bunch of terrorists.

      --

      Lars T.

      To the guy who modded me down from perfect to terrible Karma - Apple haters still suck

    6. Re:We're Paranoid By Profession. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      The prize cans are supposed to have different labels and other identifying marks, so if you have one, you're supposed to KNOW it.

      Refer back to a similar Coke promotion from about 10 years ago where the cans were normal-loooking but filled with "an inert fluid" to feel real. When opened, a little plastic tube full of paper (think about those rolled-up horoscopes) would pop out the hole and tell you what you won. Problem was, the pop-out thing didn't always work and people accidentally DRANK this "inert fluid" and got sick and/or scared to death that they'd been poisoned. Huge disaster.

      SO now they have a similar idea but with prize cans that are more obviously prizes.

      This brings to mind a couple of thoughts: if the cans LOOK different, if they are clearly prize cans, and they're being stocked in vending machines, what's to stop the vending machine loader from taking out the prize cans for their own use? Same thing for the shelf stockers at the grocery store, or hell, customers walking down the store aisle might be able to spot them. Golly, Jenny, I know which six pack of Coke *I* want!

      Now, you might say, what about sealed 12-packs or whatever. Aha! These prize cans are electronic devices, which means they emit radio signals of some sort even when they have not been activated. Coke had to get FCC approval or use somebody's technology that is approved so this stuff is on file somewhere.

      A non-activated can might not emit much signal but all you need is A signal or response that's even slightly different from a plain can.

      A handheld frequency counter should do the job and be capable of checking whole store displays in seconds. Any response at all = winner!

      Cracking this contest for personal gain looks to be exceedingly easy. Are the prizes actually worth a bother?

  43. Communist Plot to defame Coke! by Cheirdal · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    This is a blatant communist plot sponsored by Pepsi (everyone knows they're in bed with the Chinese and North Koreans).

  44. Best quote... by Jace+of+Fuse! · · Score: 1

    "There's things generals should stay up late at night worrying about," he said. "A talking Coke can isn't one of them."

    It's a good thing I'm not a military general. I ALWAYS worry whenever something that shouldn't be talking to me suddenly starts to do so.

    --

    "Everything you know is wrong. (And stupid.)"

    Moderation Totals: Wrong=2, Stupid=3, Total=5.
  45. Coca-cola website by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    you know this is funny, just last night i was at the coca cola website goign thu their rumors and guess that the said that there is no such thing as a killer coke cans that have been tempered with. Check it out for urself.

  46. The real threat by 14erCleaner · · Score: 1
    ...is to the purity of our precious bodily fluids!

    Also, that stuff will rot your teeth. Everybody with a mother knows that.

    --
    Have you read my blog lately?
  47. I welcome our new Coke Can Tracker overlords by mboverload · · Score: 0, Offtopic
    THe cans do not even look like coke bottles. They are dull plastic grey with a HUGE red button on one side and two other smaller bottons.

    Who ever thought this up should be shot.

    1. Re:I welcome our new Coke Can Tracker overlords by foobsr · · Score: 2, Funny

      The cans do not even look like coke bottles.

      This emphasizes how insidious the plot is :)

      CC.

      --
      TaijiQuan (Huang, 5 loosenings)
  48. Nope... by Cyno01 · · Score: 4, Informative

    Urban legends. About the only thing coke is good for besides drinking is cleaning chrome. Some places do clean their floors with seltzer water from a tap in the back of the soda fountain, but no syrup, that'd get everything all sticky. Link. Also try to find episode 5 of Discovery Channels Mythbusters. Probably avalible on p2p, or check the listings.

    --
    "Sic Semper Tyrannosaurus Rex."
    1. Re:Nope... by Inda · · Score: 1

      My mother uses it to clean the limescale off the bathroom furnature.

      Wow. That was really interesting for you lot, I'm sure. +5 interesting will do me please.

      --
      This post contains benzene, nitrosamines, formaldehyde and hydrogen cyanide.
  49. Oh great by dignome · · Score: 1

    And to think these people are running the country. "Coca-Cola Co. says such concerns are nothing but fizz." Agreed.

  50. Dolts by crmartin · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Get a grip, folks. The sort of environment they're talking about is extremely sensitive: like, the definition is "revelaing this information could lead to critical danger to the US and its citizens."

    This isn't a joke. A few years ago, some member of Congress (Orrin Hatch is what I recall) proved how much an Insider he was, and what Good Stuff He Knew, by telling a reporter that we were intercepting Usama bin Laden's satphone calls. The reporter, also being a moron, reported this. Soon enough, UbL stopped making open satphone calls.

    Some time later, 9/11/2001.

    Quibble if you like about the absurdities to which this leads -- like the books I wrote twenty years ago which I can no longer legally read -- but if you look into the history of bugs, subversions, and general espionage, you'll find that worrying about someone bringing an unexamined cellphone into a classified facility is pretty reasonable.

    1. Re:Dolts by rsidd · · Score: 1
      This isn't a joke.

      Others disagree: you're presently at +4 funny.

    2. Re:Dolts by crmartin · · Score: 1

      Well, it's really only a +1 funny; I'm guessing that's for my wry asides in making my point, but I'll take any points I get.

    3. Re:Dolts by Concerned+Onlooker · · Score: 1
      [After learning of the Doomsday Machine]
      President Merkin Muffley: But this is absolute madness, Ambassador! Why should you *build* such a thing?

      Ambassador de Sadesky: There were those of us who fought against it, but in the end we could not keep up with the expense involved in the arms race, the space race, and the peace race. At the same time our people grumbled for more nylons and washing machines. Our doomsday scheme cost us just a small fraction of what we had been spending on defense in a single year. The deciding factor was when we learned that your country was working along similar lines, and we were afraid of a doomsday gap.

      President Merkin Muffley: This is preposterous. I've never approved of anything like that.

      Ambassador de Sadesky: Our source was the New York Times.

      --
      http://www.rootstrikers.org/
  51. This may have been a responsive effort by SkorpiXx · · Score: 1

    There was a couple that won the car about a week ago around where I live. They also live close to: Eglin AFB, Hurlburt AFB, Pensacola NAS, Duke Field, 6th Ranger training batallion, etc.

    Speculating, but this may have been in response to a "security threat" that had already taken place and they are trying to prevent any other events like this.

    --
    bah.
  52. Got a Coke problem? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Get Derek Smart to beat up your Coke machines.

  53. Re: The game in your sig by LostCluster · · Score: 1

    No, right now I'm the only person who controls the questions in the game.

    However, there game is constantly rotating questions in and out of play so that it's a completely different experience every time you come back to it. Bookmark it and see for yourself in a few hours...

  54. THAT'S DOCTOR! by MisanthropicProgram · · Score: 1

    That's Dr. Pepper - MD - thank you very much! He didn't spend years in medical school to be called Mister!

  55. RTFA by dacarr · · Score: 1

    They're not banning coke, they're requesting people make sure that there's no GPS in the coke can. Which, figuring Martin's statement is likely correct (effectively, a roughly coke can shaped wireless phone with a GPS), is pretty easy to do.

    --
    This sig no verb.
  56. The Military is Just Afraid... by Mister+Transistor · · Score: 3, Funny

    That someone at Area 51 will open the damn thing, and Coke's prize patrol will have to report there with the giant check!

    --
    -- You are in a maze of little, twisty passages, all different... --
  57. How Al-Queda has Fallen by Greyfox · · Score: 3, Funny
    If the biggest thing our military is worried about over the 4th of July weekend is a freaking Coke can.

    Speaking of transmitting Coke cans, how hard would it be to develop a GPS-coordinate-transmitting device that could be issued to anyone who could be potentially kidnapped and beheaded in the middle east? Of course it'd have to be held in their "compartment" since the terrorist assholes kidnapping them would probably be on the lookout for such a thing. But really, if it came down to sticking a coke-can-sized transmitter up your ass most of the day versus potentially getting kidnapped and beheaded, I think most people would go for the coke can, no?

    Anyone patenting an ass-transciever based on this post damn well better give me credit for the idea...

    --

    I'm trying to teach myself to set people on fire with my mind... Is it hot in here?

    1. Re:How Al-Queda has Fallen by crmartin · · Score: 1

      There are lots of people whose job description in the military is "worry". We try to split up the load.

    2. Re:How Al-Queda has Fallen by identity0 · · Score: 1

      I think Tim McVeigh has prior art on the idea - Facts about Tim McVeigh

      15. McVeigh once lied to some neighbors of Terry Nichols and told them the Army had implanted a computer chip in his butt.

      Of course he's dead, so it might be in the public domain now : )

    3. Re:How Al-Queda has Fallen by Idarubicin · · Score: 1
      Anyone patenting an ass-transciever based on this post damn well better give me credit for the idea..

      Sorry...Cartman has prior art.

      --
      ~Idarubicin
  58. And I thought by El-Kelvinator · · Score: 1

    I was reading Fark, not /. wtf? shouldn't this get an "assinine" tag?

    1. Re:And I thought by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      No, FARK used the "Strange" tag.

  59. Editors by MrYotsuya · · Score: 1

    All I can think of is that a furby with a coke can must be the military's worse nightmare.

    I know the editors can't go around correcting everyone's submission, but they could at least insert a [sic] next to stuff that is misspelt , or with bad grammar. It would make the front page much more readable.

    1. Re:Editors by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      thats just it. everyone thinks slashdot has editors. that would mean they also have reporters, going out and writing original stories. editors edit stories submitted by reporters. last i checked, there were no reporters submitting stories here, just people regurgitating articles they find elsewhere, hoping to get a front page posting. taco != an editor. slashdot submitters != reporters.

  60. Thank God I switched to Pepsi by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 2, Interesting
    I've been a Coke fanboys for all these years. But they recently switched their 12-packs to "Fridge-Paks" or something like that were you have six cans in two rows. Guess what? Doesn't fit in my smaller sized fridge! Fuck me running.

    Pepsi is always a few cents cheaper. I never buy Coke above $3/12-pack and this 4th of July, they were at $3.29 (with the yellow "Save!" price label to boot). If I have to have soda pop and Coke prices itself out, I usually fall back on Dr. Pepper or 7-Up.

    At $2.79 for a real fridge friendly 12-pack, I decided to give Pepsi a go this weekend. Now, I'm sitting here sipping one and wondering why I never bothered all this time.


    Fanboyism definitely has its limitations.

    1. Re:Thank God I switched to Pepsi by DoktorSeven · · Score: 1

      Amazing, that. Pepsi products can be on sale for $2/12 pack and I'll still buy Cokes at $4.

      Pepsi's taste is just not to my liking. I'm sure Pepsi tastes fine to you (and others) but I can't stand it (and any other Pepsi product).

      --
      This is a sig. Deal with it.
  61. Grocery hell by AndroidCat · · Score: 1

    Classic, Vanilla, Cherry, Diet, No-caffeine, and now Wireless Coke!

    --
    One line blog. I hear that they're called Twitters now.
  62. gps that sends out its location when button pushed by Keruo · · Score: 1

    anyone thinking of hacking the coke can to do something else than creating excess litter after drinking it? like get the signal reading to transfer somewhere else and put that slice from the can to your laptop for example and recieve constant coordinates to trace it, in case of theft for example

    --
    There are no atheists when recovering from tape backup.
  63. Policies are non-negotiable by Gorilla_Man · · Score: 2, Interesting

    This is a typical sarcastic reaction from non-military people. In the military a policy is a policy and must be followed strictly. Classified information is no joke. If a policy states that you will not have any device that transmits or receives information within x meters of where classified information is being processed or discussed then that must be strictly followed whether its a cell phone, blackberry, pager, walkie talkie, or in this case a promotional coke can. There are no exceptions, not even for generals. They can check their devices at the door, but even they are not exempt. Generals should not be staying up worrying at night about these coke cans, thats why they delegate such matters to us security people. But now I've said too much....Now look directly into the beam of light.

  64. Can you say "Publicity stunt?" by Gumber · · Score: 1

    This whole controversy sounds like something drummed up by one of Coca Cola's PR flacks to promote their summer promotional campaign.

    I feel icky.

    1. Re:Can you say "Publicity stunt?" by IamGarageGuy+2 · · Score: 1

      This doesn't sound so implausible. An easy way to get on the 6:00 without spending cash. A new way of marketing - guerilla(sp) marketing and terrorist marketing. The news people foot the bill for pushing it out and the marketing company reaps the rewards as people hear about it.

      --
      Stay tuned for new sig...
  65. Is it really that bad? by WanderingFighter · · Score: 1

    How could ease dropping be a factor? Outside of tracking location, the only way to spy would be to have someone actually answer the cell phone and leave it on.

    --
    $>man woman
    $>Segmentation fault (core dumped)
  66. Misdirection by StalinsNotDead · · Score: 2, Insightful

    Has anybody considered that stories about what appear to be farcical exercises in military paranoia could be planted to make people believe the military is foolish, thus lulling the enemy into a false sense of security. And/or distract people actively trying to access classified and sensitive materials away from the true focus of the group that says. "Check you Coke cans" and "No Furbies". That way the enemy doesn't dig deeper for the "Hostile Intent Brain Wave Reader."

    Anyway, these suggestions need to be made (at least to military personnel). Sure regulation states no recording or communications devices beyond this point. But this is a stuffed animal or just a can of Coke. Sometimes these thinmgs aren't necessarily obvious.

    --
    Thanks to the internet, we can now all die alone together! -SomeWoman
    1. Re:Misdirection by crmartin · · Score: 1

      Sadly, most of those stories that make the military look foolish are true.

  67. $0.75? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Dude, move inland and get cans of Coke for no more than $0.60. You people in the urban coastal areas amuse me.

    1. Re:$0.75? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Holy shit, $0.60 you say? I told the missus to start packing the bags as I type this, we're moving to bumfuck Idaho!

  68. Maximum Overdrive? by siriuskase · · Score: 1

    It's a cardinal sin not to read the article first, but the intro blurb has filled my head with the image of the ultimate villian, that coke machine that killed all the little baseball players in that classic man vs machine thriller Maximum Overdrive.

    --
    If you must moderate, please moderate as irrelevent, not something bad, because I'm sure someone will find this interest
  69. Military (un)Intelligence by Ayrehtek · · Score: 2, Informative

    They're worried about these overly conspicuous non-standard-looking Coke cans when wrist watch cell phones exist? Now THAT is military intelligence for you! *rolls eyes*

    1. Re:Military (un)Intelligence by Scratch-O-Matic · · Score: 1

      The problem is taking the cans into areas where NO cell phones are allowed...be they in a can, on a wrist watch, whatever. I've seen this same discussion elsewhere, and people seem to think that the dumb old military is just focusing on these scary cans. They are not -- they have just warned people to be careful that they may inadvertantly bring a cell phone into an area where it is not allowed.

      You assumed the worst, I think, but at least you didn't actually SAY that dumb old line about the oxymoron. *rolls eyes*

      --


      Evil is the money of root.
  70. Coke Cans with Chips by levin · · Score: 1

    Can I get mine with KC Masterpiece chips?

    --

    `which fortune`
  71. I can see it now... by Rufus88 · · Score: 1


    In the future I bet almost all devices, maybe even ALL soda cans, will contain
    miniature computers with wireless capabilities


    *** Error: The electronic opener in this can has detected an overpressure condition inside and needs to shut down. The most recent temperature and acceleration data has been recorded in the logfile. By sending this information to CocaCola, you will enable us to help diagnose this condition. What would you like to do?
    [Send Now]....[Don't Send]...[Just open the damn can before I pull out my Swiss Army Knife]

  72. Whoooooooosh!!! by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    The sound of the parent post that went completely over your head.

    Actually it gave no grounds at all for your "paranoid wackjob" comment. (Not that it is the cleverest comment to begin with.)

    Next time read before writing.

    1. Re:Whoooooooosh!!! by ifwm · · Score: 1

      The wackjob comment was aimed at his initial post regarding RFID, GPS and "Minority Report" flashbacks. Next time read before writing.

  73. premeptive attack by kautilya · · Score: 1

    okay guys..time to launch a premptive attack against coke in Atlanta and unleash a media campaign! :)

  74. VALID REACTION! by mOoZik · · Score: 2, Interesting

    I think this is a valid reaction. Think about it: its internal cell phone could be hacked to call some other phone and possibly even send all audio from the user - in whatever sensitive area - to wherever it is programmed to call. Of course, this could be integrated into normal Coke cans, but this is a good disguise for such an act, as ridiculous as it sounds.

  75. Got an email from a friend about this a week ago.. by prisonblues · · Score: 2, Interesting

    I had heard an advertisement on the radio for this coca cola contest. Apparently they are putting a phone and gps locator inside some coke cans. If you find one you win a car. Of course phones and gps locators are not allowed in the secure areas ("behind the fence") in Los Alamos. Check this out.

    ---------- Forwarded message ----------

    You might get a chuckle out of this one (shades of Maxwell Smart), but apparently it's for real. If you work behind or near the fence please remove and report any coke cans found to contain a phone and GPS locator.

    ----- Begin Included Message -----

    Might be careful before bringing Cokes into the security area.....

    Subject:FW: Security Alert: Coke cans w/phone & GPS locator

    It's a Coke - No, it's a phone with GPS locator!

    This is NOT a HOAX, it is a legitimate contest being run by Coca-Cola!

    Coca-Cola Cans With GPS Locators

    1. Between May 17th and July 12th, approximately 120 cans of Coca-Cola with GPS locators will be hidden in specially marked 12, 18, 20, or 24 packs. While the advertisement states they could be hidden in Coke Classic, caffeine Free Coke, Cherry Coke; or Vanilla Coke, a phone call to Coke Customer Service found the locators will be hidden in packs of Coke Classic only.

    2. The hi-tech Coke "Unexpected Summer" can is equipped with SIM card, keypad and GPS locator. On the outside of each can are a button, microphone, and a tiny speaker. Pressing the larger red button starts the game in process, thus activating the GPS signal and a cell phone used by the customer to call a special hotline.

    3. Coca-Cola packages should be opened and inspected before entering the SCIF. Obviously, if one is found, it should not be activated within the SCIF; nor, should it be carried into the SCIF once activated. If one is discovered in the SCIF, either in a snack fund or from a vending machine, immediately report it to your Division Security Officer.

    http://www2.coca-cola.com/presscenter/nr_2004051 0_ americas_gps_promotion.html

  76. APPROPRIATE PLATOON QUOTE by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "You all take a good look at this lump of shit, remember what it looks like. You fuck
    up in a firefight and I goddamned guarantee you a trip out of the bush - in a body
    bag! Out here, assholes, you keep the shit wired tight at all times. And that goes for
    you, shit-for-brains. You don't sleep on no fucking ambush. And the next son'bitch I
    catch coppin Z's in the bush, I personally am gonna take an interest in seeing them
    suffer. I shit you not. Doc, tag 'em and bag 'em."

    When you're in the Army you keep your shit wired tight at all times wether it's an order to clean the shiters or shoot that motherfucker over there. You don't question orders unless it involves ovens.

  77. But... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Do these cans support Sidetalkin'?

  78. Laugh it up, fuzzball by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1, Interesting

    Imagine for a moment someone DID constuct a bomb out of a coke can. How much semtex would a coke can hold? I've never played with the stuff, so I don't really know how powerful it is. I would guess though, if one were to go off in your face, identification by dental records might prove difficult. And wouldn't you feel better then knowing the military DIDN'T take it seriously?

    1. Re:Laugh it up, fuzzball by 3waygeek · · Score: 1

      How much semtex would a coke can hold?

      Roughly 355 cc, or 497 grams.

    2. Re:Laugh it up, fuzzball by stanmann · · Score: 1
      Imagine for a moment someone DID constuct a bomb out of a coke can. How much semtex would a coke can hold?
      How much semtex or other HE would a coke can hold... The answer is "enough".
      --
      Food not Bombs is a nice platitude but it breaks down when you notice that the Bombees are usually well fed
  79. A new low in Pepsi propaganda by Rai · · Score: 2, Funny

    I thought that rigged "Pepsi challenge" was bad, but this type of hysteria is a new low. Shame on you, Pepsi, for trying to share our brave troops from drinking Coke!

  80. Not so much the sugar by Jayfar · · Score: 2, Informative

    but the caffeine in it is a diruretic.

    1. Re:Not so much the sugar by Jayfar · · Score: 1

      er, diuretic. The submit button makes a great spelchucker. Pedants at ease now. %-)

    2. Re:Not so much the sugar by Artifakt · · Score: 1

      Caffine is a diuretic, but the cola dehydration claim is only about a half truth. Studies have found that people who are sensitive to caffine or aren't regular cola drinkers can dehydrate themselves through frequent urination, and it can be a real risk in a very hot, dry setting, but the effect tapers off in most people after about a week's steady caffine use. For a large majority, the risk becomes trivial. If you're actually hiking the desert, working in a foundry, or are a borderline diabetic or person with a previous history of heat injuries, you should probably avoid colas completely while those circumstances last, but then that's good advice for the 15 million borderline diabetics in America anyway. If you are normally sedentary and just started hiking deserts or working in 120 degree heat, avoid them until you are adapted, then use moderation. If you work outdoors in the sun and it gets above 80 F, or you play active sports, you probably want to use water or an electrolite drink at least half the time.

      --
      Who is John Cabal?
  81. In related news... by Marko+DeBeeste · · Score: 2, Interesting

    Coke cans that disguised as cell phones distributed to crack dealers with bonus samples of cocaine. (Oh. Wait... didn't it already, I mean..)

    --
    Faith: n. -- That human impulse that drives them to steal appliances when the power goes out
  82. Killer? by Yoquimbo · · Score: 0
    GPS devices and listening devices aren't really "killer" are they?


    Wasn't there a whole slew of vietnam-era military-base-legends about cans of coke spiked wtih powdered glass and snake venoms, sold by Vietnamese peasants to the soldiers? Are there any real documented cases of this happening?

    --
    Death to Reefer Addicts.
    --
  83. yeah... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    I work in one of these secure places (i'm a member of the USAF). While it may sound like paranoia... the reality is we're talking about safeguarding highly classified information. They just want to be consistant... they don't allow these things in there just as they wouldn't allow a cell phone or a handheld GPS. Also, our security precautions only dictate that the coke be opened prior to entering the secure room/bldg, and you can bring it in once you've verified you didn't win anything :)

  84. Nice, Coke! by martingunnarsson · · Score: 1

    From the article we learn:
    - Coca cola is running an ad campaign with nice prizes.
    - The american soldiers drink coke.

    I wonder how much Coca cola payed to get this stealth ad onto CNN. I mean, come on! They even write what the prizes are!!

    --
    Martin
  85. It is called capability confinement by jamiefaye · · Score: 1

    The reason you are not allowed to have a cell phone is because you could leak information to the outside with it. (If RF is blocked by a Faraday cage, you could still use voice recording, etc.).

  86. fair enough, but by commodoresloat · · Score: 2, Interesting

    is there a similar restriction on bringing cell phones to military bases or "sensitive" areas? It seems a regular cell phone would be more dangerous in this light than the killer coke cans, since, as Coke says in the article, the cans only call Coke and that's it. A cell phone could be programmed to call anywhere and function as a monitoring device, and spies could find your location based on a cell phone even without GPS. Hell, someone could install one of these in a can of 7-Up to really throw them off. But all that presumes the intent to spy.... the article is about preventing the accidental security risk of a Coke contest winner bringing this device to a meeting and accidentally sending the meeting details and private location to Coke. Again, that's fine, but it doesn't say in the article whether they'll prevent normal cell phones from coming in, which would pose the same threat.

    1. Re:fair enough, but by NanoGator · · Score: 1

      "is there a similar restriction on bringing cell phones to military bases or "sensitive" areas? "

      Yes for exactly the reasons you describe. If you connect your laptop to a machine labeled 'secure', they confiscate your laptop, completely wipe it, and return it to you. If you EVER visit a secured location with a laptop, turn off wifi, and turn off your IR port.

      --
      "Derp de derp."
  87. Dupe?? by Gunnery+Sgt.+Hartman · · Score: 1

    At first I thought that this was a dupe. Then, I realized that I had read it on Collegehumor.com about five days ago. Way to be on top of things /.

    --
    [ ]
  88. It's got to be the about the aliens by Gary+Destruction · · Score: 1

    The military doesn't want anyone opening a can of coke during an alien autopsy or experiment. The last time someone came out to give a prize, they were abducted.

  89. Not *that* funny-Blow-up Bessie. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "Somebody apparently got one of these at a food court in downtown Toronto, and left it behind (I guess the prize wasn't that impressive). Somebody else saw this carton of milk with wires and electronics and called the bomb squad. The building was evacuated, much to the amusement of the local news media (once they found out what happened)."

    GOT MILK....all over your food court?

  90. ...the Central Intelligence Agency banned Furbies by Coupons · · Score: 1

    They needed to do that? We have CIA agents who carry around stuffed animals? 8\

    --
    If we knew what we were doing, it wouldn't be called research, would it? ~ Albert Einstein
  91. The pen is [nosyier] than the sword. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "No writable media permitted, under any circumstance.
    "

    You do realize this excludes pen and paper?

    1. Re:The pen is [nosyier] than the sword. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Th human eyes/ears/fingers and brain, with accompanying software form quite a respectable recording device as well.

  92. Actually by usgrant · · Score: 0

    When I was in Baghdad there were rumors going around about explosives in soda cans targeted at Americans.
    Joe will believe anything when he is deployed. Like that time they told us we were going home... We did, 11 months later.

    --
    -usgrant
  93. Well, they are to cows. by Snaller · · Score: 1

    At least here... thought less people throw cans fields, they get plowed into small sharp shards and silly cows eat them and then get their intestines cut up and die from it.

    Happy thoughts....

    --
    If Google really cared they would fix Android Chrome to reflow text, instead of discriminating
  94. Who built the coke can? by Jah-Wren+Ryel · · Score: 1

    Ten to one, the software and probably even the assembly of these gps/phone coke cans was outsourced to a foreign country. What level of confidence is there that the cans have not been compromised in some deviously clever way?

    Sure American designers/assemblers can be infiltrated too, but at least they have to do so amongst the eyes of hundreds of Americans who have a stake in their country remaining secure. In another country, it may be that only the upper-levels of management have any interest in not screwing up the relationship with Coke.

    Hell, Coke is a multinational company too, whose to say that their interests are not sometimes at odds with the interests of America as a whole?

    Maybe that sounds like tin-foil hat stuff to you, but from a security perspective, double-checking coke cans is low-hanging fruit, might as well grab it.

    --
    When information is power, privacy is freedom.
  95. killer coke? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    I can bet that it is just an excuse to augment the budget of the war on drugs.

  96. NUde Security by cbelt3 · · Score: 1

    Yep- I recall a tour of the Federal Reserve (a Private Corporation, folks...) processing center in Cleveland. The operators enter through a glassed in area. They must disrobe. Then pass a security guard's station- nude. Then dress in uniform on the other side. The process is applied in reverse on the way home. Keep in mind that these guys process $Billions daily, and vault can handle around $1 Trillion in cash, and they get their currency in armored semis- $100 Million to a pallet of shrink-wrapped cash.. Of course, it might be an issue in the don't ask don't tell army....

    1. Re:NUde Security by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      I'm in the same kind of situation, but I'm nowhere near millions pallet of shrink-wrapped cash, I work at a McDonald's fastfood chain. They make me disrobe in the nude, and they touch under my scrotum to make sure I'm not hidding anything, or so they say. Do you think this is right?

  97. is that new product from coke? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    I think they call it c4

  98. UGH Repost and wrong headline by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    1. This is a repost from LAST WEEK.

    2. They aren't "KILLER CANS", they're just damn trackable GPS cans.

    jeezus. I expect better from /.

  99. What about landlines by wired_parrot · · Score: 1

    My father was working in a research project for the military during the '80s, one of those hush-hush things you're supposed to maintain absolute secrecy. At one time, he received an advisory from above warning people not to discuss sensitive information near their telephones - these are plain old-fashioned landlines. Turns out that they'd received information that they suspected certain foreign espionage agencies of using telephones as receivers. Apparently they'd call a number, let the person on the other end hang up, and somehow they managed to hold on to the connection, thus using the phone as a receiver. Never figured out if this was paranoia or if there was any gleam of truth in it, but it sounded feasible to me at the time.

  100. does anyone remember KILLER TOMATOES frm the 70s ? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0



    Anyone remember KILLER TOMATOES ? Where were you in 72? Goofy minds want to know. Send all replies to tehsuck@cnn.com

  101. SECURITY THREAT! ! ! by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    woooooo ! ! !

    Time to load up your closet with another truckload of plastic sheets and duct tape! Lord knows the truck load I bought last time the almighty Dubya screamed just won't due for this!

    wooooooo! !

    be scared!

    be afraid!

    Cuz you aren't a true american if you aren't constantly living in fear over the most stupid thing! Better bomb someone! bettter bombbbb someeeoneeee nowwwwwwwww! ! ! !

    Better get a gun! a gun will make you safe! a gun! only a gun and more BS from the media can cure this fear!

    im so glad im a dumbass scared american.

    wait, whats that ..

    ahhhh!!!!!

    oh, nevermind, that was a regular coke. good thing i only blew 3 holes in it with my gun, and I have all this duct tape to repair the damage.

  102. But what is the can transmitting? by martin.obrien · · Score: 1

    Everything I've read about this coke can fails to mention WHAT the can is sending. I would assume that there isn't a handset built into the can, so as to provide 1 or 2 way voice communication; but simply a cell transmitter to send the GPS location information...

    1. Re:But what is the can transmitting? by Todd+Knarr · · Score: 2, Informative

      No, there's a complete cel-phone handset built into the can.

      As far as the military's concerned, though, whether it's two-way or not doesn't matter. The problem from their perspective is that it can transmit. If it can transmit, it can in theory transmit anything. You can see the obvious problem with a device in a sensitive area transmitting a wide-angle video and audio feed of all the documents and discussions about the latest tweaks to the Sidewinder target-seeker algorithms, for example. Given the state of cryptography and steganography, the only way to prevent this is to go to the source and stop all transmissions out of sensitive areas. No exceptions, because as soon as you make an exception you just know one of the bad guys will start working on a way to sneak his stuff into that exception in a hard-to-detect way.

  103. Killer Coke Cans? by crashnbur · · Score: 1

    This has got to be worked into Aqua Teen Hunger Force somehow!

  104. Maybe Pepsi needs to worry! by Newer+Guy · · Score: 1

    After all, a Coke can that can bug them...with a GPS no less! :)

  105. IIRC, the LAST time they were shooting Coke cans.. by Retrib96 · · Score: 2, Funny

    on Independence Day, didn't they have to bring down the alien shields with a computer virus? As Jeff Goldblum demonstrated, a Coke can behind the shield of a no-longer-defunct alien spaceship in Area 51 is just as dangerous a threat to worldwide security as the shield of a no-longer-defunct alien spaceship.

  106. demon coke cans in lebanon by swschrad · · Score: 1

    one trick the "family groups" used to use in lebanon, told to me by an IT worker we had who was raised there, was to cut the bottom out of a coke can, pop the pin on a grenade, slide the can over the grenade, and set it down on a street someplace.

    there are doubtless other interesting things to do with coke cans, so I avoid 'em :-D

    --
    if this is supposed to be a new economy, how come they still want my old fashioned money?
  107. Electronics in sensitive areas by sgtgary · · Score: 2, Informative
    Personal perspective here... I'm military and have worked in sensitive access areas, so I can relate.

    There is a standing rule that ANY electronic brought into one of these secured areas requires prior permission. They do not deny entry to everything - only those things which people could either intentionally or unintentionally use to "easedrop" or spy.

    Everyone seems to think that they worry too much about simple things, but here's why... The military performs testing on zillions of electronic devices to determine their weaknesses. They have determined that many communication devices can be hacked or easedropped on without the user's permission - and in a few cases, even when the phone is "off" but battery is still installed. Now, I drag a 12-pack of Coke into my cubicle and set it right next to my classified phone. There's a possibility that someone taps in and intercepts my Coke-phone and listens in on all my classified discussions. No matter how remote the chance, the government will NOt allow this possibility - hence all the fuss about the cans.

    Now, just imagine how that cell phone can be used against you by your unscrupulous employer...

    --
    A top-secret government program involving instantaneous travel to other solar systems by means of a device known as a st
  108. obligatory Dr.Strangelove quote by dario_moreno · · Score: 3, Funny

    sorry if this is redundant, but I have to mention it :
    (US Army Ranger sergeant being ordered by Peter Sellers to use his gun to blow a Coke dispenser apart to get some coins in order to avoid total nuclear war)

    "if you do not get the President of the United States on that phone, you will be responsible to the Coca-Cola Company".

    --
    Google passes Turing test : see my journal
  109. Costly wastfull promo while product lacks by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    They waste money on this while they could be using the money to actually "improve" the product by switching back to REAL sugar instead of the high fructose and/or corn syrup they replaced it with during the whole "New" Coke back to "Classic (NOT!)" Coke scam.

  110. coke really is killer by kwoff · · Score: 1

    Drinking all that sugar is not at all good for you.

  111. Why easily identifiable cans? by stormshaker · · Score: 1

    It's seems strange to me that the cans would be so easily distinguishable ... I mean if the person loading the coke machines and the store keepers selling coke see one of these winning cans - do you think they're gonna put it out for regular sale?

  112. Yummmmmmm by Big+Nothing · · Score: 1

    From article: "Specialized Coke cans carry chips and cellular phone equipment."

    Coke WITH chips - how can this be a bad thing? St00pud milletary.

    --
    SIG: TAKE OFF EVERY 'CAPTAIN'!!
  113. Deep insight by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Thank you folks, this thread gives us a deep insight into the American Soul.

    (You must be scared like shit)

  114. secured(1) does not equal secured(2) by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "Yes cellphones are banned from secured areas."

    If life were only so easy. "Secured" means vastly different things to different groups.

    An OLD joke has it that the Marines secure a spot by blowing it up; the Army secures a spot by occupying it; the Navy secures a spot by surrounding it; and the Air Force secures a spot by taking out a 3 year lease on it.

  115. RAND by k98sven · · Score: 2, Insightful
    so what it boils down to is some security firm pumping once again money from the gov(and paving the way for future pumping)...

    Excuse me, you're not talking about "some security firm" here, you're talking about The RAND Corporation.

    RAND was formed by the Air Force back during the cold war. Did a lot of development of game theory. John Nash ('A beautiful mind') worked there.

    Infamous back in the 60's for their game-theoretical approach to nuclear war scenarios.
    Giving rise to the following satirical ditty by Malvina Reynolds:

    The RAND Corporation's the hope of the world,
    They think all day long for a fee.
    They sit and play games about about going up in flames;
    For counters they use you and me.


    More on RAND.

    I suppose you get the picture. Like them or not, RAND is and has been the most influential defense think-tank in the world, and shaped a large part of US defense policy.

    Calling them "some security firm" is a bit of an understatement in that light.
  116. HAD clearance by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "like the books I wrote twenty years ago which I can no longer legally read"

    I can relate. I have memories I no longer have clearance to recall. I was at a party where dumb-asses were dissing having ANYTHING secret in a democracy; I started saying something about the nuclear ... and I had to bite my tongue and walk away.

    1. Re:HAD clearance by crmartin · · Score: 1

      Oh jeeez I can identify with that.

      The one that bugged me the worst was... well, okay, a little sanitizing here.

      I was reading articles in the public media about how the Administration was worrying about the Bad Guys -- call them Freedonia -- building anti-whaleboat weapons. The Public Media was saying this was silly, because there was no evidence that Freedonia had anti-whaleboat weapons, or would for ten years, and in any case protecting our whaleboats would be destabilizing.

      The thing being that I was working at an operational site, intercepting intelligence about Freedonia testing their newly operational anti-whaleboat weapons.

      Of course, the problem was that writing the scathing letter that the story really called for would have gotten me shot.

  117. You can run....... by Roskolnikov · · Score: 1

    Ok, the concerns are valid and it would seem that CNN is fluffing
    this one up; still I think soldiers should be warned.

    My question is this, if one of these things were to be activated by mistake, on a base or a battlefront, would the Coke truck arrive? I mean an SUV delivered in Iraq might be an incredible prize to a soldier hoofing it......

    Maybe the folks in charge should stop using Coke products, not the kind measured in ounces or milliliters but the kind measured in grams.

    --
    Unix, an obscure operating system developed by bored researchers in an attempt to get a better game playing experience.
  118. Any cans of soda not permitted in Wonderland by kbahey · · Score: 1

    In Canada's Wonderland, north of Toronto, any and all cans of soda/pop are not premitted at the metal detectors.

    You either have to return them to the car, or discard them on the spot. No exceptions.

    This is not related to GPS nor phone.

  119. MOD PARENT UP! by oldwarez · · Score: 0

    ...and death to America!

    --
    username:oldwarez password:oldwarez
  120. soviet herf guns called beer cans by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Soviet herf guns had big capacitors like a big
    beer can and usa papers refer to it has beercans

  121. no way by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    there must be at least a dozen ways to "hijack" it. Dang! they used to make bombs inside soda & beer cans and try to get the soldiers to pick 'em up and blow themselves up.
    People have used soda & right gaurd cans to stash their drugs.
    what about the can-sat satelite contest that we read about right here on /. a few months back - where industrious students built "satelites" inside soda cans and launched them.

    Or is Coke trying to say that it's distribution network is secure beyond any chance of coruption, that sounds like a story the ciggarette companies should be telling.

  122. Instant Winner, 10 times over! by tgrigsby · · Score: 1

    So let me get this straight: they've loaded certain coke cans with cell phone electronics and GPS devices, right? Oh man, this is too easy. I'm getting on eBay to see if they have any bug-sweepers. Just walk into every store that carries canned soft drinks and do a quick sweep down the cola isle. Booya! Instant winner, baby!

    If I recall, some bug sweepers work by transmitting a radio frequency. Transistors will resonate with a radio harmonic which can then be picked up. I don't know how accurate they are at pinpointing the device, though. It might be counter productive to have to buy the entire stock of Coke just to get to a single winning can.

    --
    *** *** You're just jealous 'cause the voices talk to me... ***
    1. Re:Instant Winner, 10 times over! by tgrigsby · · Score: 1

      Replying to my own reply...

      Here's the necessary equipment, with a bid at this time of $33. There are others as low as $9. I can taste success, and it tastes like a sweet, carbonated drink...

      --
      *** *** You're just jealous 'cause the voices talk to me... ***