The issue of applicable patents opens up the topic of locations where these
patents are and are not enforceable. After discussions with several
well-known crypto developers, its my understanding that a number of
countries (e.g., Australia, New Zealand and South Africa) do not recognize
algorithmic patents. This would seem to give a considerable advanage to
companies from these locations fielding OpenPGP products. This might apply
whether or not their customers were in countries which did recognize the
patents, other than major corporations which are nearly always 'good
citizens', since enforcement of patent infringement against end-users is
considered impractical.
--Steve
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Steve Schear | tel: (702) 658-2654
CEO | fax: (702) 658-2673
First ECache Corporation |
7075 West Gowan Road |
Suite 2148 |
Las Vegas, NV 89129 | Internet: schear(_at_)lvcm(_dot_)com
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