Hackers and comlinks, How many and where? Options Track this topic Email this topic Print this topic Download this topic Subscribe to this forum Display Modes Outline Switch to: Standard Switch to: Linear+

[Dancer]

It seems to me that a Hacker really has use for 3 comlinks

#1 Secure. This one has the wireless functionality physically ripped out of it, and is used for storing and processing data you really don't want other people to be able to get at (like the recording of your meet with Mr. Johnson). Implant, obviously.

#2 Hacking. An ultra-high-spec custom-built unit, used for your extra-legal escapades. Left with wireless off whenever you're not using it to hack, so no-one can hack into it. Preferably external so you can fiddle with the guts whenever it takes your fancy.

#3 Public. An off-the-shelf generic comlink used for ordinary everyday things, so you don't leave the digital fingerprints of your ULTRA-LEET 12000 all over the grocery shop. Also has light security and some faked up boring files so people don't wonder "Why does this guy have an unhackable comlink? Is he a criminal?". Can be used as an emergency hacking tool if for some reason you lose access to #2 (download the hacking and security programs off #1 via datachip). Could be implant or external.

(And obviously #4, a clone of #2 stored in a safehouse somewhere as a backup, but that's not relevant right now).

Now if you implant #3 and carry #2, then people will wonder why you're carrying around a comlink you're not using (since you use #3 for everything you admit to). Same problem with carrying both. If you carry #3 and implant #2, you're now unable to upgrade your main hacking machine without someone cracking your skull open, dooming you to be 6 months or more behind the technology curve. Ditto for implanting all three.

Thoughts?

Edit: Note that 'people' may be 'the Lone Star cops at the checkpoint', so what people think certainly does matter.