

A Vast Web of Vengeance, Part 2
May 3, 2021
Kashmir Hill, a journalist known for her investigations into digital reputations, delves into the murky waters of complaint websites that harm thousands. She highlights the unregulated nature of these platforms and the personal stories of those affected by malicious content. Hill also reveals the exploitative tactics of reputation management companies and their ties to unethical practices. Discussing the intertwining of misinformation and investigative journalism, she emphasizes the essential role of accountability in the digital age.
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Family Defamed Online
- Kashmir Hill previously shared a story about a family targeted by online defamation.
- A woman's 30-year vendetta fueled the false accusations, highlighting the devastating impact.
Unverified Claims
- Complaint sites host defamatory claims without requiring supporting evidence.
- Anyone can post anything, making them akin to "the bathroom wall of the internet."
The Dirty's Rise
- Nick Ritchie, considered the "founding father" of complaint sites, created The Dirty in 2007.
- The site thrived despite defamation lawsuits, leveraging Section 230 for protection.