You may have heard about the potential government intrusion into our computers. It’s a scary statement on the “Cash for Clunkers” site.

This statement was publicized by Glenn Beck, a talk show host. As far as I know, the government has not refuted it. So, here’s the statement:

“This application provides access to the DOT CARS system. When logged on to the CARS system, your computer is considered a federal computer system and is the property of the United States Government.

“Any or all uses of this system and all files on this system may be intercepted, monitored, recorded, copied, audited, inspected, and disclosed to authorized CARS, DoT, and law enforcement personnel, as well as authorized officials of other agencies, both domestic and foreign.”

That appears to say the government can muck around in your computer. Is that what it means? I doubt it, but that language gives me the willies.

There are some other things you should know about this. For instance, it’s intended for dealers, not consumers.

Also, the government can’t magically look at your computer. It might download a cookie, but that can’t probe your files. Unless it puts a program on your computer, you’re safe. So, just logging on to a government site can’t hurt you.

Now, do dealers have to take a download from the government? Maybe so. That potentially could put them at risk. I doubt it, but still…

Personally, I think this is an example of what happens when lawyers aren’t properly supervised. This language is just so over the top.