Many people believe they can say what they want on the Internet as long as they use a pseudonym. After all, it is easy to set up an account using an anonymous alter ego. In addition to believing they can post whatever they want, they may also think they are protected by the First Amendment. They may think freedom of speech has no limits, and that even when vicious lies are posted, that anonymity will shield them from liability. They may not realize that when they sign up for an anonymous Internet user ID, they are likely agreeing to specific terms that create indemnities for the Internet host as well as limit its liability.
Loading ...
That Nasty, Anonymous, Online Lie Could Cost You Millions
Posted by: Peter S. Vogel July 4, 2012 05:00 AMMany people believe they can say what they want on the Internet as long as they use a pseudonym. After all, it is easy to set up an account using an anonymous alter ego. In addition to believing they can post whatever they want, they may also think they are protected by the First Amendment. They may think freedom of speech has no limits, and that even when vicious lies are posted, that anonymity will shield them from liability. They may not realize that when they sign up for an anonymous Internet user ID, they are likely agreeing to specific terms that create indemnities for the Internet host as well as limit its liability.