Mozilla Geode – A threat to User privacy?

Mozilla, the company behind the Firefox browser, has released technology that helps websites detect the physical location of computers.

• The system will allow users, for instance, to find local restaurants when they travel to a new town.

• The Geode project is an experimental program ahead of a full blown launch of geolocation technology.

• Users will have control over how much location information they give.

• It uses technology from a firm called Skyhook which works out a computer’s location from nearby wireless networks.

• Its so-called Loki system can determine location within seconds with an accuracy of about 10 to 20 metres.

But when it can trace the physical location of computers, then it can easily trace serious information for hackers and intruders as well, even some random websites now may steal user information very easily if this source code gets leaked.

It is a controversial question that if this issue should be accepted or not that easily by everyday and not so computer savvy users, as it may be a big threat to user privacy.