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NSA Caught With The Cookies
zardo writes "The associated press is reporting that the NSA is putting cookies on visiting computers. Apparently it is unlawful for the government to put anything but a session cookie out unless it's expressed in the site's privacy policy." From the article: "Don Weber, an NSA spokesman, said in a statement Wednesday that the cookie use resulted from a recent software upgrade. Normally, the site uses temporary, permissible cookies that are automatically deleted when users close their Web browsers, he said, but the software in use shipped with persistent cookies already on. ... In a 2003 memo, the White House's Office of Management and Budget prohibits federal agencies from using persistent cookies _ those that aren't automatically deleted right away _ unless there is a 'compelling need.' A senior official must sign off on any such use, and an agency that uses them must disclose and detail their use in its privacy policy."
We recently learned that the NSA could be listening to any of our phone conversations. This is insignificant in comparison.
Socialism: A feeling of discontent and resentment caused by a desire for the possessions or qualities of another.
Just set your browser to delete cookies when you close the browser. I think that is a basic setting on any browser. Now, if they had some kind of "supercookie" that you couldn't delete, that would be more interesting. Or if you tried to delete it and the Department of Homeland Security came knocking on your door.
Honestly, though, there are plenty of sites that install cookies. If you don't like them, delete them. It is as simple as that.
Does anyone else see the irony in the fact TFA wants to set a cookie that expires in 2038?
qz