In a recent conversation, Jon Callas, a prominent figure in computer security, elaborated on his transition from Apple to the ACLU, emphasizing the pressing need for policy-driven approaches to tackle surveillance issues.

Callas, who previously served as Apple’s security chief, has a storied career marked by his involvement in creating secure communication technologies. His decision to join the ACLU as a technology fellow raised questions about the motivations behind leaving a lucrative position for a role within a non-profit organization.

In an interview, Callas articulated his views on the current state of technology and its implications for civil liberties. He highlighted the increasing government intrusion on personal rights, global hacking incidents, and political unrest as critical issues that necessitate immediate attention.

Callas stated, "I consider surveillance to encompass a wide range of concerns, from machine learning in image recognition to privacy breaches and encryption vulnerabilities." He believes that the tech industry's role in these challenges cannot be overlooked, although he suggests that the problems often stem more from the scale of these companies than their technological innovations.

He further elaborated on the implications of free speech and censorship within the tech landscape, noting that the consolidation of platforms can stifle diverse voices. Callas emphasized the importance of market competition in preserving users' rights.

When asked about addressing these concerns through his work at the ACLU, Callas pointed out that many issues are fundamentally policy-related rather than technical. For instance, the location data linked to mobile phones poses significant privacy risks, which cannot be resolved through technical means alone.

Callas expressed support for regulations like the GDPR, acknowledging that while they are not flawless, they represent significant steps toward enhanced privacy protections. He also discussed the need for antitrust actions to address the dominance of major tech firms and foster a more competitive market landscape.

Reflecting on the evolution of the tech industry, Callas conveyed disappointment over the lack of robust privacy protections and the pervasive nature of advertising tracking. He lamented that while technology has provided remarkable resources, it has often come at the cost of individual privacy.

Despite the challenges, Callas remains optimistic about progress in computer security, pointing out advancements in secure communication technologies by companies like Apple and Google. He believes that addressing the potential risks posed by the internet of things is crucial for the future.

In discussing the broader implications of big tech, Callas underscored the need for a reevaluation of antitrust principles in light of modern challenges. He called for a more nuanced understanding of market dynamics, arguing that the current monopolistic tendencies can hinder meaningful competition.

As for the dialogue between Silicon Valley and Washington, Callas emphasized the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of decisions made in both spheres. He articulated a shared responsibility to prioritize user security over surveillance, urging tech companies to engage with concerns raised by the public.

Ultimately, Callas advocates for a proactive approach in addressing the challenges posed by technology, emphasizing that if solutions are not developed within the industry, governmental regulation may become inevitable.

This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.

Elias Groll is a staff writer at Foreign Policy covering cyberspace. @EliasGroll