Keeping e-mail encryption alive
Source: CNN
Phil Zimmermann knows a thing or two about adversity. His invention for encrypting e-mail, Pretty Good Privacy, was so good that the government considered it munitions subject to tough export controls. Prosecutors threatened him with criminal charges when others leaked it overseas.
The government ultimately backed off. But now, the company that makes the most popular version of PGP is the one pulling the plug.
It's yet another setback, but Zimmermann isn't rattled.
"PGP has been around for 10 years and has endured incredible obstacles and hardships," Zimmermann said. "Powerful forces have been arrayed to stop PGP and yet those obstacles were overcome."
PGP's future now lies with a handful of voluntary and entrepreneurial efforts that follow Zimmermann's designs. None carry the PGP name, though, as Network Associates Inc. retains trademark rights.
