How Our Ancestors Guarded Information Before Passwords
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Chapter 1: The Password Predicament
After grappling with my password for what felt like the hundredth time, I found myself resisting the urge to pound the keyboard in frustration. This was yet another instance where I had to reset my password—something I thought I’d never have to do again. It seems I’m far from alone in this struggle; a recent PC Mag poll indicated that many people, including myself, find themselves resetting passwords an average of five times each month.
In today's world, passwords have become an integral part of our daily lives, almost as if they are an ancient relic we can't imagine living without. However, the concept of passwords is a relatively modern invention. According to Robert McMillan from Wired, we can trace the origins of our current password culture back to one individual: Fernando Corbató from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
In the early 1960s, computers were communal rather than personal, with many users accessing a single machine from various terminals. This setup necessitated a method to control access to individual files, leading Corbató to create the Compatible Time-Sharing System (CTSS). Passwords were employed instead of other forms of authentication primarily for their simplicity, as security wasn't a major concern at that time.
Interestingly, the CTSS was hacked in 1962 by Dr. Allan Scherr, who discovered he could print out everyone’s passwords. Although he didn’t steal any data, he used the passwords for some cheeky tricks to secure extra screen time.
This anecdote got me pondering: what strategies did people use to safeguard their information before the advent of passwords? This curiosity led me to discover a fascinating world of invisible ink, wax seals, ciphers, and masked letters.
Section 1.1: The Ancient Cipher
Ciphers are arguably the oldest known method of information protection, having been utilized for over 3,000 years, according to the CIA. The method is often associated with Julius Caesar, who used simple letter substitutions to encrypt his messages.
Imagine writing out the alphabet twice on a piece of paper and shifting it three letters to the right; in this scenario, "A" would become "D." Historical accounts, including those by the ancient writer Suetonius, confirm that Caesar’s ciphers were a way to keep his messages confidential.
The CIA also notes that the Enigma Machine used by German forces in World War II was a complex derivative of this simple technique. Interestingly, George Washington employed similar ciphers during the American Revolution through a spy network known as the Culper Spy Ring.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Culper Code
This network effectively transmitted crucial information regarding British military movements, remaining undiscovered until 1929. Washington's spies had a comprehensive codebook containing hundreds of numbers representing key words and locations, making their messages difficult to decipher.
Section 1.2: Ribbons and Wax Seals
According to Rachel Bartgis from the National Archives, sensitive documents in the past often featured brightly colored ribbons and wax seals. These seals were not only difficult to replicate but also served as immediate verification of a document's origin.
Despite the effort put into these protective measures, they weren't foolproof. Washington's "Black Chamber Operations" were known to intercept British mail and duplicate their seals, a tactic used by both sides during the war.
Chapter 2: More Methods of Protection
In this video, titled "Protect Your #Passwords: What You Need to Know Before Leaving #Lastpass," you'll learn essential strategies for managing and securing your passwords effectively.
Another insightful video, "Rock Star Tech Tips: Secure Passwords You Can Remember," provides helpful tips on creating memorable yet secure passwords.
Section 2.1: Masked Letters
The British also utilized a complex method known as masked letters to convey information. This technique involved sending a seemingly ordinary letter that contained misleading information, while the actual secret message was hidden within.
For instance, Sir Henry Clinton’s letter to a confidant had a hidden message revealed only through a specially shaped template that masked the text. The Cardan system allowed for intricate communication, making it a clever method for exchanging information without attracting suspicion.
Section 2.2: The Use of Invisible Ink
Invisible ink, mentioned as early as 2,000 years ago by Pliny the Elder, remains one of the more fascinating methods of concealment. Lemon juice was often used, as it would disappear upon drying but could be revealed through heat.
George Washington even had a dedicated facility for crafting these inks, which were referred to as "medicine." His Culper Ring and British operatives both utilized this tactic, with messages sent through invisible ink interwoven with innocuous letters.
Final Thoughts: A Perspective Shift
While password resets can be maddening, they are far less cumbersome than the elaborate methods our ancestors employed to safeguard their secrets. Imagine the labor of mixing invisible ink or meticulously crafting a cipher—suddenly, those frustrating password resets seem much more manageable.
As we navigate the sea of passwords in our digital lives, it's worth reflecting on how much easier we have it compared to historical figures like Caesar, Washington, and Pliny the Elder, who would have likely welcomed the simplicity of today’s password systems.