The problem is broader than this
we are voluntarily privatising our private lives, handing over so much personal information and ultimately control over our private lives to private companies.
If states were running facebook, twitter etc they would be seen as totalitarian regimes, but since people click a checkbox for 'terms and service' that few read, it's all ok.
The fact is that websites like Facebook, eBay, Google, Paypal, Twitter have enormous power, a de facto monopoly even. It is hard to maintain a normal online life without their services. They act as modern day virtual utilities. Once upon a time, important utilities were regulated up the arse to ensure they didn't abuse their power.
I imagine governments like this to some extent, instead of getting warrants and court orders etc, they can just ask these major players to bar a particular user or organisation.
FaceBook, Google, Amazon, eBay, whatever private website, is ultimately acting for its own interests. They can do whatever the fuck they want. If you have a problem with this, then change the law, but good luck organising that online.
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Sextant goes to him is emotionally erect, on this day, Sat 30 Apr 2011, 15:05,
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