Peter G. Neumann – Page 6 – Communications of the ACM

Opinion Nov 1 1999

Inside Risks: Risks of Content Filtering

The Internet and World Wide Web may be the ultimate double-edged swords. They bring diverse opportunities and risks. Just about anything anyone might want is on the Net, from the sublime to the truly evil. Some categories of information could induce argument forever, such as what is obscene or harmful, whereas others may be more […]

Computing Applications

Opinion Jul 1 1999

Inside Risks: Information Is a Double-Edged Sword

As we begin the tenth year of this monthly column, it seems eminently clear that information technology has enormous benefits, but that it also can be put to undesirable use. Market forces have produced many wonderful products and services, but they do not ensure beneficial results. Many systems are technologically incapable of adequately supporting society-critical […]

Computing Applications

Opinion Jun 1 1999

Inside Risks: Risks of Y2K

As we approach January 1, 2000, considerable uncertainty continues; optimists predict only minor problems; pessimists claim that the effects will be far-reaching.

Computing Applications

Opinion Feb 1 1999

Inside Risks: Robust Open-Source Software

Closed-source proprietary software, which is seemingly the lifeblood of computer system entrepreneurs, tends to have associated risks: Unavailability of source code reduces on-site adaptability and repairability. Inscrutability of code prohibits open peer analysis (which otherwise might improve reliability and security), and masks the reality that state-of-the-art development methods do not produce adequately robust systems. Lack […]

Computing Applications

Opinion Oct 1 1998

Risks of e-education

Computing Applications