Tangentially related is the call for a Technology Bill of Rights over at Techcrunch. Too many laws, policies, and regulations were enacted before the radical information technology expansion of the last fifteen years. They need to be adapted, and a Technology Bill of Rights can be an excellent guide. Erick Schonfeld’s proposal encompasses copyright, Net Neutrality, and privacy, each of which are important issues that have to be dealt with under new models. The old ways just aren’t going to cut it anymore, and our federal, state, and local governments need good technology advice (and advisors). This is a good start.

A photo essay on what happens to second-hand cell phones.

A big security flaw in the iPhone is discovered.

A computer with UK bank customer information is sold on eBay.

Amidst the iphone noise, Nokia releases a budget phone that’s capable of web browsing.

I totally understand this, and want to know more.

Tired yesterday. Hard to remember exactly what we did besides walk. Visited Pizzi Palace, and the church of Santa Maria Novella by the train station. Had sandwiches and tiramisu for dinner on the guesthouse patio. Almost missed our train for the Cinque Terre, but managed to hop on just in time. Saying that it has been an interesting day is an understatement: was grand pulling into the train station in Riomaggiore; took all of 5 minutes to find a room with a kitchen and balcony; then I fell down a steep flight of marble stairs. I’ll be sore tomorrow, but at least I’m not seriously injured. My ass may be black and blue, but as long as i can hike i’ll be happy. The real downer today was on the rockys shore of the marina. There were a few sunbathers out, but it’s not what you would call a beach. It was lightly raining and one couple began dressing to leave when the man–pierced and tattooed–started yelling at another man across the rocks on the path: “take off your clothes and get in the water or get out of here you bum! You need to stop staring at people you dirty old man!” The old man on the path took off running. About the time the couple left, i noticed another older dude on the other side of the beach leaning against a rock and fondling himself. Had to get confirmation from M, but she agreed he was doing it. Wished the tough-looking guy was still around so he and i could yell together. M and i left with that unpleasant feeling in our guts. Has this place changed that much? Afterwords we stopped off to pick up some pesto and pasta for a homemade dinner. Now we’re out on the balcony enjoying the cool evening air and watching the people passing by. It’s just about gellato time!

Most time spent around Duomo; its museum was wonderful. Climbed to top of cathedral and took in the view. Sat down in a bad restaurant and soon just got up and left. Had falafel instead. Worn out by four o’clock and trudged back to the room. Found Thai for dinner; best meal yet.

Spent time outside Uffizi; active street performers there. Will try to get in tomorrow.