Comments on: Microsoft tests identity technology in schools

Microsoft takes end-to-end trust to school in proof-of-concept trial featuring information cards on small notebook PCs handed out to students, Microsoft executive says in RSA keynote.

[zmb09]

Wish I could get that at my school district that uses macs and is right next to lake washington

[tm_anon]

So instead of having to do the research on your child, all the bad guy has to do is steal the kids laptop and he's off.

Kidnappers just need to hack into the kids computer which, since I'm betting these are going to use WiFi won't be that difficult to do for multiple kids, and they don't even have to do much research, pick out half a dozen kids with fairly well-off parents and just take your pick.

It's a good idea but there are way too many security risks associated with it.

[monkeyfun14]

@tm_anon

I know cause so much damage can be done by seeing online education materials and report card grades?

[Dalkorian]

Personally I have more faith in software that doesn't feel the need to throw the word "trust" as me like a sales pitch every time I turn around. Especially when history proves that trust would be misplaced.

[tm_anon]

@monkeyfun14

"Students and parents will bring identification information into the school to prove children's identities, and the students will then get small notebook PCs with identity information cards on them to be used for accessing online education materials."

If all they're accessing is report card grades and education materials, why would they need to bring proof of identity?

And education materials depend on which class they're in which in turn tells you exactly where they are at all times.

Since they're getting a small notebook PC with identity information cards, that means a WiFi connection is all that's required before you know everything about every child in that school without setting foot inside.

Like I said, the basic idea is good but there are way too many security risks.

[Wake_Up_America]

I have a theorem for you.... "Locks only keep the good people out"

Just another fine example of the gestapo mentality of this country, what happened to american dreams and apple pie?

[bryanotis1]

Thanks for the coverage Elinor -

Intand was happy to be a part of this keynote and is looking forward to the future of Microsoft's Geneva Server.

Intand's product, Tandem for Schools, helps district admins manage the district and run the schools. Further, it helps connect the events going on at a school with the parents, students, teachers and local community by integrating directly with digital calendars, like Outlook, via ical feeds. Users can also get RSS feeds, email updates when events change and directions to the event.

Security is important to everyone, and we here at Intand are dedicated to making sure that we are providing an easy, but safe, way for a school district to connect with their community.

Also, with the help of the Geneva Server, it becomes much easier for the IT staff at a district to manage the different identities and levels of permissions across their entire staff and community. This is a HUGE win for those at a school district in the IT department.

We really enjoy CNET around the office, keep up the great work.


Best,

Bryan Otis
Intand.com
President / Co - Founder