R.L Stevenson used the proverbial 'X' in his all-time famous 'Treasure Island' to denote the place of buried gold and so do today's maps. Though the meaning of 'X' might have changed over the years, it still indicates something valuable or of importance, or something seeking attention. In today's context, the cartographer of such 'X' marks is not a specialist but lay citizens as seen from the maps of N. Korea created by Curtis Melvin from George Mason University and updated by the man on the street.

An attempt, similar to mapping by the masses, when used to gather information behind the proverbial 'Iron Curtain' - in this case N.Korea, becomes classified as group spying. The law of the land would call it 'anti-national' and if the perpetrators are caught, would face criminal charges or worse. Should sharing information about your neighbourhood be a crime? Is it possible to prevent such information from being posted? - We just need to remember that information is being willingly supplied by the citizens of that country and most would have strong reasons to do so.