Michael Moore has generated considerable publicity over his decision to make his latest film – Slacker Uprising – freely available online. Moore states that you can do whatever you want with the film, but EasyDNS reports that did not stop his lawyers from sending a takedown request regarding a torrent […]
Articles by: Michael Geist
Canadian Study Uncovers Widespread Chinese Net Surveillance
A Canadian backed study has uncovered widespread Chinese Internet surveillance that tracks text messages sent via Skype. Coverage from the NY Times and the study itself.
Do-Not-Call Registry Early Glitches
The National Post reports on the glitches (or overwhelming demand) on day one of Canada's do-not-call registry. iOptOut.ca experienced a huge traffic spike as well, sending out roughly one million opt-out requests over the past two days.
Copyright Issue Draws Local Interest
A growing number of reports (here and here) indicate that copyright is being regularly raised in local debates.
Coming To Grips With An Internet That Never Forgets
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.
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