Modern cryptography is based in advanced algorithmic theory. Personal computers and digital transmission and storage of most all sensitive personal information and business transactions have made cryptography critical.
Electronic information is readily movable and relatively easy to access.
By 1990 the need for simple and effective cryptography had been identified and promised by the Federal government. Management of an issue helps move it into the public domain, the aim being to change policy without direct influence. The role of the media has been to open up debate and encourage public participation in the democratic process. Kapor read this posting and replied. Both envisioned a networked world and became concerned about Federal security agents not extending real life rights of search, seizure and questioning to computer related crimes and the virtual world.