Elderly people have been shown how to bypass internet filters to access information on suicide.

Friday, May 07, 2010 » 05:18pm





Elderly people have been shown how to bypass internet filters to access information on suicide.



About 200 elderly people have been shown how to bypass internet filters to access information on do-it-yourself suicide, ahead of federal government plans to restrict access to certain web content.

Voluntary euthanasia and assisted suicide advocacy group Exit International held a 'hacking masterclass' workshop on Sydney's north shore on Friday.

Those at the workshop were given tips on how to use proxy servers and virtual networks to slip past filters, such as the ones the government is proposing, to find information on 'safe suicide'.

Exit International founder and director Philip Nitschke said he wasn't concerned about the legal ramifications of holding the workshop.

The workshop was closed to the media but reporters were able to attend a briefing beforehand.

'We're not concerned because the law hasn't come in yet,' Dr Nitschke said at a community centre in Chatswood where the workshop was held.

'In fact, we've recently heard that the federal government, at least (Communications Minister) Stephen Conroy, has almost suggested that when the law comes in, it may not be a crime to tell people how you could bypass it.'

The government in 2009 announced plans to block access to certain websites discussing euthanasia and assisted suicide, which is against the law, as well as sites devoted to pornographic and other illegal activities.

The government and Senator Conroy have been accused of censoring the internet.

Dr Nitschke said it was important to allow access to accurate information for people who were interested in ending their lives.

'If you know what you're doing, then you're not so afraid of the options and you then have choice, and when you have choice you're less inclined to do desperate and dangerous things,' he said.

Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or SANE Helpline on 1800 18 SANE (7263).
http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Technology/2010/05/07/Nitschke_shows_how_to_bypass_filters_459502.html