Source of quote?

[jetboy]

An old adage: If you want something to stay private, don't put in on the internet

Anyone know where this sentiment originated? I'd like to be able to quote the source.

[littleman]

That might be tough to pin down, its one of those ideas that probably have formed independently by many people in many places -- sort of like the bow and arrow.  It does sound very Eric Schmidt like though.

http://www.stateofdigital.com/top-15-of-eric-schmidts-remarkable-quotes/

[buckworks]

I first heard this concept articulated by Stephen Downes http://downes.ca back in the 90's during one of my first-ever orientations to the internet. At the time we were on staff together at Assiniboine Community College.

He said, more or less, "If something would have negative effects on your job, your relationships, your reputation or your inheritance if it became known by the wrong person(s), don't email it or post it ANYWHERE."

[nffc]

[littleman]