FBI Director Warns Against Encryption of Smartphone Data

FBI Director James Comey warned in stark terms against the push by technology companies to encrypt smartphone data and operating systems. He argues that murder cases could be stalled, suspects could walk free and justice could be thwarted by a locked phone or an encrypted hard drive. Privacy advocates and technology experts called the concerns exaggerated and little more than recycled arguments the government has raised against encryption since the early 1990s. Likening encrypted data to a safe that cannot be cracked or a closet door that won't open, Comey said the move by tech companies to protect user communications in the name of privacy is certain to impede a wide range of criminal investigations. He says new legislation to allow law enforcement snooping is needed at a time of advancing technology and new forms of communication.