Why such "loose" permissions?

[Alma J Wetzker]

Michael Hipp wrote:
> Net Llama! wrote:
> 
>> As for why, i can't say, although i think that's just the default umask
>> that Redhat sets.  You can certainly change it in /etc/profile, or
>> somewhere like that.
> 
> 
> I wasn't asking how to fix it, I was attempting to ask why does Red Hat 
> set it so loose by default?
> 
> Is there some good reason for it? Or is it a (misbegotten) attempt to 
> make everything open and easy with minimal regard for security?
> 
> Just wondering ...

There is always a trade off between usability and security.  Usually you set 
it where your particular requirements demand.  The linux distros are trying to 
compete with Windoze.  Guess where that puts security?  (Yeah, not my favorite 
place either....)

     -- Alma