Linus Torvalds - Backdoor In Linux
Sam AbdullaevCited 4× on HN, 2019–2024
news · general · 2019–2024 on HN
A short clip from the 2013 LinuxCon Linux Kernel Panel in which Linus Torvalds is asked about being approached to insert a backdoor into Linux. He answers no verbally while nodding yes, which became a much-shared moment.
Cited as the source clip whenever threads discuss government pressure, backdoors, or trust in the Linux kernel.
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4 comments from Hacker News
> he said “No”, but at the same time he nodded This is the clip where Linus did this: ▶ this video The over-exaggerated nod and pronunciation make it seem to me like Linus was just making a joke, particuarly since it was followed up by a more serious "no".
Not in proper condition for a pithy reply, so I'll link drop instead. 1. The widely revered Torvalds reverse nod: ▶ this video Thanks for the earnest, humble insight. Edit: Removed irrelevant link.
Saving people the google search, I believe secfirstmd is referring to: ▶ this video For anyone not good with faces the guy responding is Linus Torvalds who created and still manages Linux.
RedHats collaboration with NSA is well documented. I think given what we know of past actions it's at best extremely naive to not at least entertain it as a possibility. Linus himself semi-openly admits he's been approached... ▶ this video