Sad News: John Young, Of Cryptome, Wikileaks, Passed Away

EDIT: This has been widely reported mostly across different social media of Journalists, and those affiliated. So appears sadly true.

I was really saddened to read the news that John Young of Cryptome dot org passing away recently.

Early on, he was an active member of the cypherpunk mailing list.

For those unaware, this one one of the most vociferous proponents for transparency.

Starting Cryptome decades ago, before the more recent Wikileaks, Ddossecrets.

He risked everything to publish that which was 'secret' - risking everything in the interest of public transparency, and knowing full-well the dangers of increasing secrecy.

And it was a hill, one he was willing to go to prison for (he asked to be indicted with Julian Assange).

EXCERPT:

The Legacy of John Young

John Young’s influence in the realm of digital rights cannot be overstated. He founded Cryptome in 1996, a website dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of information pertaining to government and corporate transparency. Cryptome became a vital platform for whistleblowers and activists, serving as a repository for documents, leaks, and other materials that exposed hidden truths. Young’s commitment to free speech was unwavering, and he tirelessly defended the rights of individuals to access information that was often kept from the public eye. A Deep Appreciation for Aesthetics and Conscience

In his personal life, John Young was known for his deep appreciation for aesthetics—an element that permeated his work. He believed that the presentation of information was just as important as the information itself. This philosophy was evident in the design and layout of Cryptome, which emphasized clarity and accessibility. Young’s artistic sensibility informed his approach to digital activism, making complex issues more comprehensible and engaging for the general public.

Moreover, Young’s conscience guided his actions. He often spoke about the moral obligation of individuals and organizations to challenge authority and hold powerful entities accountable. His writings and public statements reflected a profound understanding of the ethical implications of information sharing and the responsibilities that come with it. Cryptome: A Hub for Transparency

Cryptome has played a crucial role in the digital landscape, particularly in the realm of information transparency. The website has hosted a wide array of materials, from government documents to leaked communications, allowing users to explore the often murky waters of governmental and corporate practices. Through Cryptome, Young provided a platform for voices that would otherwise be silenced, empowering individuals to share their stories and experiences.

The site has been instrumental in raising awareness about issues such as surveillance, censorship, and the erosion of civil liberties. Young’s efforts have sparked important conversations about the balance between security and privacy, pushing the boundaries of what is acceptable in the digital age. A Voice for Whistleblowers

Throughout his life, John Young served as a staunch advocate for whistleblowers. He understood the risks involved in exposing wrongdoing and sought to create a safe space for those willing to take a stand. Cryptome became a sanctuary for whistleblowers seeking to share critical information without fear of retribution. Young’s unwavering support for these individuals highlighted his belief in the importance of accountability and transparency.

His commitment to protecting whistleblowers extended beyond the digital realm. Young often collaborated with various organizations advocating for press freedom and the rights of individuals to speak out against injustice. He recognized that the fight for transparency was not just a technological issue but a deeply human one."

The rest of article at the link.

I'll share the ending:

" As we move forward in a world where information is constantly evolving, John Young’s legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in protecting our digital rights. The issues he fought against—surveillance, censorship, and the erosion of privacy—continue to be pressing concerns. His life’s work encourages us to remain steadfast in our pursuit of transparency and accountability.

The future of digital activism lies in our collective ability to honor the principles that figures like John Young championed. By embracing his ethos of aesthetics and conscience, we can continue to advocate for a world where information is freely accessible, and individuals are empowered to speak truth to power."

People like this really meant much to those of us interested in a right to privacy, transparency.

RIP John. Though I never met him, he (and his work) will be sorely missed.