Stanford Security Seminar

Len Sassaman

Abstract: In this talk, we discuss Bitfrost, the security model developed by the One Laptop Per Child project for its XO laptop computers. Bitfrost implements a number of security measures intended primarily to deter theft and malware, but which also introduce severe threats to data security and individual privacy. We describe several of the technical provisions in Bitfrost, outline the risks they enable, and consider their legal ramifications and the psychological impact posed for children and society.

(This is joint work with Meredith L. Patterson and David Chaum.)

Time and Place