Encryption Regulation

I write in response to your Oct. 4 editorial, “Selling Secrecy.” The Clinton administration’s plan to ease the restrictions on the export of encryption products up to 56 bits comes at a critical time. We are rapidly moving into an era where most, if not all, of our information and transactions will be conducted electronically. The security of this information is vital; equally as important, however, is ensuring that we protect public safety and our national security. We can do both with the encryption plan announced.

A critical mass of industry has announced its intention to work with the administration to develop a key recovery system, which would allow law enforcement, under proper court authority, to have access to encrypted data.

Regarding allowing export of greater-strength encryption, it is important to remember that foreign countries are facing the same law enforcement and national security concerns that we are. The trend--especially in Europe--is to require the use of key recovery products and bar the import of stronger and stronger encryption products that do not take law enforcement into account.

Finally, this administration takes very seriously its responsibility to protect its citizens and our national security. That’s why we are not lifting all restrictions on the export of encryption products, and why there is a two-year deadline on the export of 56-bit encryption products. The administration’s plan will accelerate the development of a market-driven, global key management system. That will provide the best security of all.

MICKEY KANTOR

U.S. Secretary of Commerce

Washington