anonymity, accountability & john doe
This paper addresses the issues of anonymity and accountability on the Internet, and the controversy surrounding anonymous message posters who are implicated in defamation lawsuits. "Anonymity ensures governments cannot spy on citizens and thus guarantees privacy and free speech" [7]. Free speech is not only a cornerstone of society in America but also a cornerstone of communication on the Internet. The difference between the two is that communication on the Internet can be largely anonymous - where people can post to message boards freely with minimal threat of punishment. Unless individuals can be "held accountable, we lose all recourse to the law and hence risk our very freedom" [7].
internet anonymity internet accountability cyberlibel john doe lawsuits