Is security a lost cause?

We examine two key issues for future information security, namely: (a) what do current technological trends mean for future information security, and (b) what effect do conflicts between security/privacy requirements and economic and technological pressures have on the future prospects for a more secure Internet? We consider the effects on security and privacy of six key emerging technology trends, namely: ubiquitous computing; third party computing; growing system and component complexity; integrated peripherals; system intelligence; and orchestrated attacks. We go on to consider a range of ways in which economic and technological pressures are making it ever more difficult to provide effective security and privacy. We conclude by considering whether there is any light at the end of the tunnel.