Summary

  • Google’s proposal, Web Environment Integrity (WEI), aims to send tamper-proof information about a user’s operating system and software to websites.
  • The information sent would help reduce ad fraud and enhance security, but it also raises concerns about user autonomy and control over devices.
  • The authors argue that implementing WEI could lead to websites blocking access for users not on approved systems and browsers.
  • They express worries about companies gaining more control over users’ devices and the potential for abuse.
  • The authors emphasize that users should have the final say over what information their devices share.
  • Remote attestation tools, like WEI, might have their place in specific contexts but should not be implemented on the open web due to potential negative consequences.
  • The authors advocate for preserving user autonomy and the openness of the web, emphasizing that users should be the ultimate decision-makers about their devices.

Joke:

Two pieces of string walk into a bar. The first piece of string asks for a drink. The bartender says, “Get lost. We don’t serve pieces of string.”

The second string ties a knot in his middle and messes up his ends. Then he orders a drink.

The bartender says, “Hey, you aren’t a piece of string, are you?” The piece of string says, “Not me! I’m a frayed knot.”

    • jerry
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      41 year ago

      If you just can’t use Firefox, switch to edge or opera.

      • @[email protected]
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        fedilink
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        11 year ago

        Unfortunately Opera has been bought out by a Chinese company since 2016. I don’t think that’s any better than what Google is doing.

    • @[email protected]
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      fedilink
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      11 year ago

      No. Chromium is far, far from being free of Google’s clutches. If you must use chromium-based browsers (you really shouldn’t) you can try ungoogled-chromium.