Former CIA deputy director Michael Morell earlier this month blamed Edward Snowden, who leaked details of the NSA’s surveillance programs, saying that terrorist groups such as ISIS are now using more secure communication networks. But now, the Open Technology Institute’s letter says that ‘introducing intentional vulnerabilities’ into technologies such as web browsers and devices will make them more susceptible to attack from hackers and cyber criminals. They argued that the government can obtain information for investigations from other sources and may be able to compel an individual to decrypt information with a search warrant. Some administration officials such as FBI director James Comey have said that encryption could make catching criminals and terrorists more difficult for law enforcement. Debate comes as Senate set to vote on USA Freedom Act this week.
