Security quote of the week

We already know what a platform that allows any software to be installed looks like: it’s how our computers work. Whether we use Windows, or MacOS, or Linux, there is no monopoly dictating what software we can or cannot use. We can run our computers securely, or we can choose not to. Far from it being the dangerous hellscape we’re told to fear, the results are actually pretty good. Yes, there is malware. Yes there are attacks. But there is security and safety as well. Hundreds of companies innovate in this space, developing new security and privacy technologies that we are free to install if we choose.

Out in the real world, we give people the freedom to choose their own level of risk. It might be objectively true that Disneyland is safer than a public park, but that doesn’t mean we should outlaw all public parks and give Disney a monopoly on park-like gathering places. People are free to visit Disneyland, and pay for the privilege. They are free to visit other companies’ commercial parks. And they are free to visit any of our nation’s public parks. Our laptops are like public parks, that we can arrange with whatever amenities and safeguards we choose. There is no reason our phones should not be as well.