James Clark

With much regret I have been extremely busy and have had to put this blog on the backburner. I can say now, however, that I am once again free to discuss, give caution, find the flaws and extol the virtues of new technologies.

To start, over the next little while I will be working on a series of posts regarding privacy in our modern world — from keeping our personal lives safe from would be identity thieves to protecting children from “predators” to ensuring that great aunt Millie doesn’t accidentally find that you got her a brand new kitchen set for her birthday and spoil the surprise.

Oftentimes a new piece of technology comes out and society is quick to embrace it without stopping to think about future implications. Governments tout new techologies as the next step in a series of revolutions to protect our freedom, when in reality these technologies have the potential to stamp out personal privacy. Anyone who sees the potential problems and points them out is seen as trying to rock the boat, stir up trouble, and as potential aides to those who would do us harm.

Computing has become second nature to children. They are taught from an early age how to use computers to their advantage and how to apply that knowledge to other tasks involving technology. They are not always, however, taught the dangers of technology and the Internet, specifically. A great number of parents do not have the knowledge or experience to step in and stop their children from accessing the information and people that they shouldn’t.

I use Aunt Millie’s new kitchen set as an example, but anyone with access to your computer or passwords can potentially have access to all sorts of personal information, including but not limited to email, Internet browsing history, previous purchases, social security numbers, medical history, etc.

While this is not meant to strike fear into the hearts of every person who uses any piece of technology it is important to be aware of the dangers and risks associated with living in a world of constant technological change.

Don’t miss my next post on keeping children safe on the Internet. While this is a problem that has been widely discussed in the mainstream media, I have yet to see a decent set of solutions.

How many times have you been out to eat and after having finished your meal you are forced to sit and wait before the waiter/waitress finally decides it’s time to bring out your check? How convenient would it be to be able to swipe your debit card at the table and leave without that added wait?

Potomac Pizza in Gaithersburg is debuting that very piece of technology with dozens of restaurants to follow suit. Before too much longer we’ll be able to place our orders electronically from our tables.

The push towards convenience, speed and greater quality of experience is reassuring. Now if only they would develop a piece of technology so I wouldn’t have to wait in line at the gas station.