Slashdot Mirror
Online Impersonations Now Illegal In California
theodp writes "TechCrunch's Michael Arrington reports that a California bill criminalizing online impersonations went into effect on January 1st. 'There has to be intent to harm, intimidate, threaten, or defraud another person — not necessarily the person you are impersonating,' explains Arrington. 'Free speech issues, including satire and parody, aren't addressed in the text of the bill. The courts will likely sort it out.' So, Fake Steve Jobs, you've got to ask yourself one question: 'Do I feel lucky? Well, do ya punk?'"
"The courts will likely sort it out."
You're kidding, right? In a country plagued with a broken patent system, a congress with an infant's knowledge of technology, and a government run by two-faced politicians, it would be a miracle if this doesn't add to the current issues regarding free speech online.
Stop fucking freaking out already! The law is for "intent to harm, intimidate, threaten, or defraud another person". Remember that cunt, Lori Drew, that bullied a kit into committing suicide by impersonating another person? That's what this law is targeting.
http://yro.slashdot.org/story/09/08/30/0448217/Lori-Drew-Cyberbullying-Case-Dismissed?from=rss
As to your rights to free speech and to remain anonymous,
1. It is already addressed in The Constitution
2. You should realize that judiciary is independent of legislative branch - the courts always hash out their own interpretation as it is relevant to the Constitution and other laws. That is the way you want it too - trust me - so stop bitching.
3. You are not anonymous, even myself. Anonymous is an illusion.