Terrorists Use Google Earth to Target Troops
Terrorists attacking British bases in Basra are using Google Earth images to pinpoint their attacks, according to the Telegraph.
While this is a disturbing development, the fault, where fault can be assigned, doesn't lie with Google. Google products, including Maps and Earth, are simply the most readily available products that display satellite imagery. And Google, to the extent of my knowledge, licenses its map content from one or more providers. If Google wasn't working with the military before, they certainly will be now. |
Comments (3)
The maps are also available for any chemical plant. Including the one that I work for that includes large amounts of hazardous materials storage.
Posted by Jim B | January 17, 2007 2:48 PM
AND WE ARE NOT SURPRISED THAT THE CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY IS AN OXYMORON. LoL
Posted by ALEX CHAN | January 19, 2007 6:43 PM
Google Earth is a resource used by both sides of the terrorist equation. Think of the number of G.I.s and law enforcement personnel that have used it since it became available. Of course they never get publicity about it.
And trying to get timely maps and images from the Defense Mapping Agency can be an exercise in futility.
The thing to remember about Google Earth is that the images aren't posted in real time, or even from last week. Terrorists are using them to find out long standing practices. And the military is constantly harping about not establishing predicatable patterns of behavior to its troops. Sounds like the military needs a shake-up on good security practices.
Posted by Michael Houst | January 22, 2007 7:44 AM