This article talks about a recent issue regarding Ipad usage in Israel. When the Ipad was released, it quickly became illegal to use in Israel. They felt the devices advanced wi-fi technology would interfere with the communication capability of the country. Israeli authorities said the devices' Wi-Fi standard does not match Israel's standard, which is also used in Europe. In the past two weeks, Israelis and tourists entering the country at Ben Gurion Airport have had their iPads taken by customs officials. The country's communications ministry said it reached its decision after completing "intensive technical scrutiny." Many people across the world had publicly criticized the decision before the ban was lifted.
On the surface, this does not seem to be a big deal. However, this brings up an important principle that many people do not understand. Wi-fi is not universal. Yes, how it works is exactly the same, but the standards between a European Wi-fi capable device and an American capable device are much different. This is the reason why Israel placed the ban on the Ipad in the first place. These wi-fi differences make it easier for someone to hack into an important server and potentially do harmful things. On this regard, I completely back up Israel expressing concern over the device. They are not that developed of a country to begin with, so one can assume their internet security is not completely top notch. With Israel holding a huge stake in many governmental issues, the problem of hacking is extremely strong.
However, Israel also deserved some criticism for how they handled the situation to begin with. When the story originally broke, people were arriving into the country and with no real warning have their Ipads seized. They refused to go into specifics on plans other than they would be confiscating all Ipads due to internet security. Apparently the issue being discussed could easily be resolved just by tweaking a few things. When asked why they were refusing to do the simple tasks to fix the problem, they remained consistent on their stance. There are those who stand up with Israel with the idea that the world is backing up big business rather than a country's opinion. I have to say I can see where that argument is coming from as well.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2010/apr/25/apple-ipad-ban-ended-israel
This article goes into more specifics on the decision to stop the ban on Ipads.
The country had banned imports of the iPad, which was released in the US earlier this month, because of fears its wireless signal could disrupt other devices. At least 10 iPads were seized at the country's international airport. Israel's communications ministry said officials had determined that the iPad met local standards and, as of today, imports would be permitted. Although I understand Israel's original concern, they should of tried to resolve the issue before taking a drastic measure like they did.
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