Linus Torvalds - Backdoor In Linux
Why Hacker News recommends it
Cited as the source clip whenever threads discuss government pressure, backdoors, or trust in the Linux kernel.
What it is
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.
Recommended by 0 HN commenters across 0 different months, 2019 to 2024.
What Hacker News said
Cites arminiusreturns · 2019-01 · on “Systemd as tragedy”
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]
Cites barbacoa · 2021-01 · on “Huawei Tops Intel as Top Linux Kernel Contributor for 5.10”
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.
Cites eth0up · 2022-03 · on “In 1950, the U.S. Released a Bioweapon in San Francisco”
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.
Cites Ukv · 2024-08 · on “NSA Asked Linus Torvalds to Install Backdoors into GNU/Linux (2013)”
> 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".