Evaporating the Cloud
Image Source: Evaporating Cloud
Even as a few are waxing rhapsodic about Cloud Computing, a part of me is holding back. I’m not sure why this happens when I’m considering new technologies…I seldom jump in with both feet, except when I do. When I do jump in, I’m delighted by the possibilities, explore it until the enthusiasm fades, and then I search for the next best thing. It’s an attitude helpful to my writing, I suppose, as I flitter from flower to flower, sipping the nectar without having to endure the flower’s wilt.
In fact, though I found it entirely un-masculine, the hummingbird has always been a symbol of what a learner and a writer can be. As a writer, when I consider cloud computing, I see it as an opportunity for unparalleled opportunity in K-12 schools. I certainly live in a cloud of ideas, as I imbibe the sweet liquor of the edublogosphere keen on discovery and sharing. My email is stored at Gmail, my photos in Flickr and Picasa, my writing at wikispaces, blogger, edublogs and googledocs. In fact, much of what I’ve done is now “out there” in cyberspace and my reach is far and wide, though not so wide as others.
I’m disturbed by this news…
The Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC) has asked the Federal Trade Commission to investigate the privacy and security measures of Gmail, Google Docs and Google’s other “cloud computing” services for consumers.
The complaint highlights Google’s recent security breach with Google Docs, citing this as one example of the dangers of putting consumers’ data in the cloud. The complaint also implores the FTC not only to investigate Google’s safety measures for cloud products, but also asks to hold Google accountable for any and all security breaches with their cloud-based applications. EPIC goes so far as to demand that the FTC prevent Google from offering any cloud computing services, including Gmail, until it installs heavier security safeguards.
Via TechCrunch
The truth is, so what if users choose to put stuff in the cloud? The risks are well-known…your stuff is in the hands of strangers. It’s no different that educators saying, “Put your faith in Web 2.0 apps” instead of hosting the solutions in-house with a Multi-User WordPress or Moodle.
Isn’t it?
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Everything posted on Miguel Guhlin’s blogs/wikis are his personal opinion and do not necessarily represent the views of his employer(s) or its clients. Read Full Disclosure