wilw
12-01-2006, 06:00 PM
On Science Blog this morning, I saw this article (http://www.scienceblog.com/cms/nike-ipod-combo-can-be-used-as-tracking-device-12108.html) about some potential privacy concerns with the Nike + iPod combo. I don't know if anyone was planning to pick one up after seeing Jessica's review, but just in case you were, take a look:
"It is easy for someone to use the Nike+iPod as a tracking device," says Scott Saponas, a doctoral student in computer science and lead author of a technical report posted online on Nov. 30. "It's an example of how new gadgetry can erode our personal privacy."
The researchers suggest that people who own a Nike+iPod Sport Kit turn it off when they're not exercising so that it stops emitting signals.
[. . .]
[I]t turns out that the sensor in the shoe emits a signal detectable by any compatible receiver within a range of up to 60 feet, long after the workout has ended. The researchers concocted a variety of homemade devices able to pick up the sensor's unique signature.
The various privacy-threatening scenarios are a little far fetched, but they are possible, so anyone who is concerned about that sort of thing may want to give the article a look before purchasing.
"It is easy for someone to use the Nike+iPod as a tracking device," says Scott Saponas, a doctoral student in computer science and lead author of a technical report posted online on Nov. 30. "It's an example of how new gadgetry can erode our personal privacy."
The researchers suggest that people who own a Nike+iPod Sport Kit turn it off when they're not exercising so that it stops emitting signals.
[. . .]
[I]t turns out that the sensor in the shoe emits a signal detectable by any compatible receiver within a range of up to 60 feet, long after the workout has ended. The researchers concocted a variety of homemade devices able to pick up the sensor's unique signature.
The various privacy-threatening scenarios are a little far fetched, but they are possible, so anyone who is concerned about that sort of thing may want to give the article a look before purchasing.