Google checkout and SSO

Google checkout is out, and as expected its so lean and mean that I couldn't figure out if it was actually a new google component. With froogle already in place, Google checkout can cash on the goodwill people have for its froogle service. I think this news is a big one for other business organizations, but probably isn't as significant for end user.

Remember Microsoft Passport ? Now think Google Single Sign on. I noticed a story about it being released and pulled yesterday due to some unkown reason. Personally I've always supported Federated authentication system, because it can reduce security problems due to reduced number of passwords one needs to remember. However, using a 3rd party single signon over which we have no control is like the government trying to control/monitor our income. That being said I'm still ready to subject myself to Google's Single sign on if it reduces security risks.

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