Nike+ iPod Used For Surveillance 66
Thib writes "Researchers at the University of Washington have published a report detailing many easy and cheap ways the Nike+ iPod Sport Kit previously discussed on Slashdot can be used to track individuals, even when they are not carrying their iPod. They have even implemented a Google Maps application to display surveillance data in real time." From the article: "'Our research also shows that there exist simple cryptographic techniques that the Nike+iPod Sport Kit designers could have used to improve the privacy-preserving properties of the Nike+iPod kit,' the group reports. 'Our work underscores the need for a broad public discussion about and further research on the privacy-preserving properties of new wireless personal gadgets,' the group reports. 'We stress, however, that there is no evidence that Apple or Nike intended for these devices to be used in any malicious manner. Additionally, neither Apple nor Nike endorsed this study.'"
how is this different? (Score:4, Insightful)
Isn't this = to any frequency emitting device? (Score:2, Insightful)
if any big brother organization wanted to track you they could triangulate your cell phone signal, use credit card records...
I honestly think it's a bit late and a bit hyppocritical to start complaining about an ipod interface.
welcome to 1984? (Score:2, Insightful)
There really don't need to be large groups of 'men in black' if most of the populace simply hands over their rights and privacy.
Those who don't know what tor is should. There are methods for remaining rather anonymous in the world at large. This story is simply the warning sign to let you (yes you, joe public) know that if big brother is not already spying, he will be soon. The patriot act and the DMCA have enabled the nefarious among us to do so.
Sensationalist Headlines at CNN (Score:5, Insightful)
I mean, really though: "iPod flaw helps stalkers track your every move", and "Tracked through your iPod - Some researchers say that your iPod could double as a tracking device."... Neither mention Nike's role in this issue, and both make it sound like an iPod is diddling your sister or something...
This also seems to imply someone wants to stalk your sweaty, running ass to begin with... I mean, seriously, if someone wanted to track you, there has to be a better way than sprinkling "Gumstix" PCs in the damn bushes to listen to your ugly ass sneakers.
Re:God. Dammit! This is a stupid story (Score:3, Insightful)
On the other hand, this could have some good uses too! You could unlock your car if the sensor is in range, and lock it if it isn't, for instance.
Re:how is this different? (Score:5, Insightful)
Agreed.
Much ado about barely anything. I met the product manager for the Nike+iPod kits. I can assure you that tracking people without their permission wasn't in the MRD.
So, based on the FA, you have to be within 30 feet of the person the "bug" is planted on. How is this so effing different than following someone around and watching what they do?
I'm a pretty big privacy advocate. I got ticked when the company who "wanted to hire me" made me take an invasive personality test [calipercorp.com] But this is a lot of heat and noise over nothing - an attention-seeking hyper concernicus group looking for attention.
Re:God. Dammit! This is a stupid story (Score:2, Insightful)
Yes, there are lots of ways to track people (Score:5, Insightful)
I bet Apple didn't bother encrypting the transmission because all it does is transmit an ID and data stream. The data is totally unimportant unless you happen to care about someone's training program. And here's the crucial part--the ID is also totally unimportant because when people go jogging, they almost always go jogging in a public place. And when you're jogging in public you're already broadcasting your ID at least 60 feet, via the light that is reflected off your recognizable face.
This just in from Seattle... (Score:3, Insightful)
Neither Apple nor Nike endorsed this study. (Score:3, Insightful)
Advertising potential (Score:4, Insightful)
Your 1km time today: 6:31
Last week: 6:28
You need Red Bull!
No surprise. (Score:3, Insightful)
If you're that paranoid and don't want to risk being tracked it's simple. Don't buy electronic devices, particularly those that transmit any kind of signal. Even then there are ways to observe people, but at least it's significantly more difficult.
The problem becomes when people are forced to carry devices that report some organization, be it the government or some corporation. We aren't there yet, but I wont be surprised if when it comes people either don't notice it happening or they openly embrace it.
It has an off switch. (Score:5, Insightful)
I personally only use my sensor on my running shoes, which I only wear while running. Good running shoes are too expensive to wear just walking around town, they wear out too quickly. So if anyone wants to track me while I run 5 one mile laps, in the exact same course, 4 times a week, hey, help yourself to my sensor data.
Re:No surprise. (Score:3, Insightful)
Not there yet?
Company provided cellphone or pager.
GPS schoolbus/delivery driver/trucker.
RFID cards for building access.
Company car with OnStar.
The ever present cameras.
Now your shoes. When is it too much? I think 'too much' happened a while ago. We were just too busy to notice.