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Linus Torvalds - Backdoor In Linux

Sam Abdullaev · 154.8K views · 2013-09-19 · 0:27

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Overview

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.

On Hacker News

Cited as the source clip whenever threads discuss government pressure, backdoors, or trust in the Linux kernel.

Discussed on HN; no positive recommendation is recorded in this export · HN mentions 2019–2024

Topics

Linux & open-source ecosystemsSecurity & hacking
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linus torvaldslinuxbackdoorlinuxconsecurity

What people said

Ukv · 2024-08 · Reference

> he said “No”, but at the same time he nodded This is the clip where Linus did 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".

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eth0up · 2022-03 · Reference

Not in proper condition for a pithy reply, so I'll link drop instead. 1. The widely revered Torvalds reverse nod: [VIDEO] Thanks for the earnest, humble insight. Edit: Removed irrelevant link.

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barbacoa · 2021-01 · Reference

Saving people the google search, I believe secfirstmd is referring to: [VIDEO] For anyone not good with faces the guy responding is Linus Torvalds who created and still manages Linux.

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Sources

Video by Sam Abdullaev, played through YouTube.

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