My weekly technology law column (Toronto Star version, homepage version) discusses the implications of an Internet that never forgets. I note that the most significant Internet effect during the current campaign has not been any particular online video, website or Facebook group. Instead, it has been the resignation of eight local candidates based on embarrassing or controversial information unearthed online. Many observers have blamed the revelations on inadequate vetting processes, yet the reality is that these incidents shine the spotlight on an important but rarely discussed aspect of the Internet. Old blog postings, chat room discussions, or difficult-to-explain videos are captured by search engine databases and lie dormant until an intrepid searcher comes across it. In other words, the Internet never forgets.
Archive for September 29th, 2008
Kempton Lam on the Copyfight
Kempton Lam posts about the growth of fair copyright in Calgary ahead of tonight's debate in Calgary Centre-North.
Copyright in Local Debates
Reports indicate that copyright is repeatedly coming up during local election debates. This video clip shows responses to the copyright question in Ottawa Centre.
Canadian Do-Not-Call List Launches Tomorrow
There is considerable media attention today on tomorrow's launch of the National Do-Not-Call List. Starting tomorrow, Canadians will be able to register up to three phone numbers on the DNCL. Organizations will have 31 days to abide by the request. Failure to do so can result in penalties of up […]
Coming to Grips With An Internet That Never Forgets
Appeared in the Toronto Star on September 29, 2008 as Coming to Grips with an Internet That Never Forgets Political parties and analysts have been keeping close watch on the role of the Internet throughout the current election campaign. All parties have beefed up their online presence with countless Facebook […]