Here is one for all those fans of Kochivibe whose goes to cafe’s just to read our updates.! (We might be pushing it a bit) . If you are one of those very few people who actually go to cafe’s to ‘surf ‘ ( ) you might be concerned to hear that cops are setting up softwares at Cyber Cafes throughout Cochin, that is snooping on your activities on the computer! Things are getting stricter at cyber cafes. Earlier cafes were advised to install cameras and collect details of the customer and record it. As if THAT was not enough, you now have a computer software that tells the cops what you do online! However, this massive intrusion of privacy is reasoned. Growing terrorism threats is just one half of the story. Online scams, wealth transaction frauds, identity thefts and hacking cases are on the rise in the city.

Our cops seem to be genuinely worried now a days. Here is why. Google Maps is making detailed map of the state. For those who wondering if it could get more detailed, YES it can. Every small bend and turn are gonna be covered on the maps. So why is that a bad thing? According to Police Intelligence Chief this could pose a problem because it could expose key strategic assets like the Southern Naval Command in Kochi. We at Kochivibe very frankly don’t understand what all the fuss is about. If the cops had a look at the google maps now, they would know that everyone already has a pretty detailed view. The image below shows the Southern Naval Command Airport at Maximum zoom.

What the cops should have done was to talk to Google rather than cry out helplessly to the media. Google has already blurred out various locations through out the world that holds strategic value, as per government requests. So its nothing new for them. Infact when Former President Abdul Kalam, had a concern google went ahead and censored various key locations through out the nation. Our cops should have probably done their homework. By their actions our cops have achieved to bring the attention of the terrorists frantically looking for maps! .

Please don’t arrest me!