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Domain: blackplanet.com
Stories and comments across the archive that link to blackplanet.com.
Stories · 2
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Censorware Blocking People's Names
GeorgeH writes "Internet Freedom has an interesting article on a new type of censorware. They discuss a Los Angeles lawyer who was forbidden from registering for BlackPlanet.com. The reason? Because her name is Sherril Babcock, and the software doesn't allow any profanity. The article raises some valid points on why closed censorware is a Bad Thing(tm), and how it is slowly creeping into everyone's life. Remember this article next time someone says "Well if you don't like censorware, don't use it."" Companies are now so sensitized to criticism that they don't care if their actions are overkill. -
Website Bans Woman With "Unacceptable" Name
Barbarian writes "In an example of censorware gone awry, Digital Freedom Network reports on how the website Blackplanet.com will not let a woman register because her name contains the word "cock", as do many last names. Thinking it was an oversight, she emailed the site administrators and was told, "unfortunately, the letters that form the word 'Cock' is [sic] unacceptable and will not be recognized by our system." The site intends to continue using the censorware, and if the woman wants to register, she can change her name."