OK, here's an *excellent* opportunity to get some cypherpunk exposure on RISKS. Amazingly, we haven't really been seen there before. I move that T.C. May or some other prominent cypherpunk write a letter representative of group interest and ideas on the subject. But anyone who feels they have something to say on the subject should pass on a letter to increase our chances of `getting published'. I would, but offshore data havens are not my niche. Everyone, *don't* argue about the specifics of the letter on the list -- we will never get it sent that way -- but suggestions are OK). then, in a segue (that's the *correct* spelling, Mr. P. `segway' Ferguson :) In the letter, consider talking about the Cypherpunks media exposure in NYT, Village Voice, Whole Earth, etc. However, if the c'punk mailing list is advertised, be *sure* to point out that its up to ~30 messages a day -- I think this helps alleviate spurious newcomers. I would recommend that the more anarchic aspects of the issue of Data Havens be glossed over, such as tax evasion, and just emphasize the non-threatening aspects such as digital cash, etc. so as not to startle all the fuddy duddies. I'm sure they will figure out the implications without any help from us. We do *not* want to come off as a cyberspatial terrorist organization (however close we may actually be :) Definitely, include a pointer to Chaum. Strike while the iron is hot! this is a mainstream opportunity for increased press exposure and attention to the cypherpunk cause. You'll notice the person inquiring is a reporter. chances are the articles he is referring to were cypherpunk-based. I wonder. Also, he *may* be writing an article and purposely not mentioning to avoid competition. ===cut=here== Date: Sun, 5 Sep 93 16:00:59 PDT From: John_R_Bruni@cup.portal.com Subject: Offshore Data Havens As a reader of RISKS who combines his vocation, journalism, with his avocation, computers, I'm writing in with a request. In the course of working on an assignment for one of the TV networks, I came across references to "offshore data havens." These are data networks, alleged to be in the formative process, which will glean data by means fair and foul from the world's legitimate data bases. The implication is that formerly confidential information, be it about individuals, corporations or governments, would seep across networks. The information would then be available, at a price, to anyone who wanted it. My questions are: * Are "offshore data havens" actually being formed, and if so, where? * What are the inherent problems that come to mind? Don't be afraid to state the obvious; television audiences aren't experts in this area. I'd love to see this become a topic for discussion on RISKS, but would also appreciate (with thanks in advance) any responses sent to me directly. john_bruni@cup.portal.com ------- End of Forwarded Message