Want to Censor Third-Party Content? Target the Registrar or Web Host.

Bogus copyright takedown notices have become much more common. These copyright infringement letters target the web host or other third party vendor providing back on technology for your website. These third parties are typically not looking for a copyright fight and may not do the due diligence necessary in determining the validity of a copyright infringement claim.


E-Commerce News: Controversies: Domain Name Registrars: The Weakest Link in Online Free Speech

Protesters have learned to target domain name registrars instead of the actual publishers of offending content, because those usually anonymous Internet players will fold like a tent in the face of an impending storm.

"It is an interesting new strategy that is being used more and more," Naughton said. ....

To some people who regularly do business with domain name registrars, the only thing surprising about [Registrar's] response was how long it held out against the ... legal onslaught.

Hosting censorship can occur for just about any mundane reason -- never mind banking business practices and differences in religious opinions.

"All it takes is the threat of a lawsuit or even just a 'legal' looking document sent to the domain registrar,"....

Technorati Tags: first amendment, free speech