One agency wants Internet wiretaps, another wants privacy protected

A Federal Bureau of Investigation initiative that would make it easier for law enforcement to wiretap the Internet works at crosses purposes with a recently launched cybersecurity public awareness campaign, privacy advocates said.

Bureau officials are pushing Congress to pass a bill that would require manufacturers of Web-based technologies to equip their products with programs that allow the government to intercept messages from suspected criminals, according to media reports published last week. Simultaneously, Obama administration officials are beginning an initiative aimed at teaching Americans how to defend themselves against hackers. The seemingly conflicting policies raise questions about the ability of the government to protect the security of the Internet while at the same time protecting the nation's security. The Homeland Security Department on Monday kicked off its 7th annual National Cybersecurity Awareness Month with its Stop. Think. Connect campaign. The department is suppling communities, organizations and individuals with materials that instruct Internet users how to safeguard personal information and online communications.