F I D O N E W S -- Vol.11 No.39 (26-Sep-1994) +----------------------------+-----------------------------------------+ | A newsletter of the | ISSN 1198-4589 Published by: | | FidoNet BBS community | "FidoNews" BBS | | _ | +1-519-570-4176 | | / \ | | | /|oo \ | Small animal psychology and | | (_| /_) | Spiritual guidance Department: | | _`@/_ \ _ | Rev. Richard Visage 1:163/409 | | | | \ \\ | | | | (*) | \ )) | Editors: | | |__U__| / \// | Donald Tees 1:221/192 | | _//|| _\ / | Sylvia Maxwell 1:221/194 | | (_/(_|(____/ | Tim | | (jm) | Newspapers should have no friends. | | | -- JOSEPH PULITZER | +----------------------------+-----------------------------------------+ | Submission address: editors 1:1/23 | +----------------------------------------------------------------------+ | MORE addresses: | | | | Don -- don@exlibris.tdkcs.waterloo.on.ca | | Sylvia -- max@exlibris.tdkcs.waterloo.on.ca | | Tim Pozar -- pozar@kumr.lns.com | | David Deitch -- 1:133/411.411, deitch@gisatl.fidonet.org | | | submissions=> editor@exlibris.tdkcs.waterloo.on.ca | +----------------------------------------------------------------------+ | For information, copyrights, article submissions, | | obtaining copies of fidonews or the internet gateway faq | | please refer to the end of this file. | +----------------------------------------------------------------------+ ======================================================================== Table of Contents ======================================================================== 1. Articles...................................................... 2 ZCC selects new FidoNet International Coordinator........... 2 Dear Reverend Visage,....................................... 2 New Echo: DIVORCE........................................... 4 Mike Fuchs Compromises Echolist Entry Password Security..... 5 What Is StormNet?........................................... 8 Regarding the re-engineering of net 6:700................... 11 New government elected in Sweden 18. September 1994......... 12 Drear Madam Emilia.......................................... 13 Subject: File 1--New indecency rules proposed............... 13 If you are a Rottweiler lover.............................. 16 2. Fidonews Information.......................................... 17 FidoNews 11-39 Page: 2 26 Sep 1994 ======================================================================== Articles ======================================================================== ZCC selects new FidoNet International Coordinator FidoNet IC Elected to Office From: The Zone Coordinator Council (ZCC) Submitted by: Colin Wheat, Z3C (3:3/0) The Zone Coordinator Council (ZCC) has, by a majority and unanimous vote of 6:0, selected George Peace as the new FidoNet International Coordinator, with effect from the 1st September 1994. George was the immediate past Zone 1 Coordinator. POLICY4 wording requires that the IC be selected from amongst the ZC ranks, however this solution has been made possible by a POLICY interpretation supplied by the outgoing IC. The ZCC wishes to thank the outgoing IC, Matt Whelan, for his past contributions to the FidoNet network. The responsibility and required time commitment of the IC position are substancial and demanding, thanks for the commendable contribution Matt. There has been an unfortunate time delay between IC resignation and this selection. However with George accepting the position, we're looking forward to improving levels of Zonal cooperation and performance both within the ZCC and throughout the Network. Signed: Bob Satti (Z1C), Ron Dwight (Z2C), Colin Wheat (Z3C), Gamey Garcia (Z4C), Henk Wolsink (Z5C), and Honlin Lue (Z6C). Message text adapted by the Z3C, original text by Trev Roydhouse (former Z3C). ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Swamp Swine Magazine, Railroads for Christ Division, Shuckmagosh, Ohio Dear Reverend Visage, How fortuitous that you sojourned in Winnipeg which is several hundred kilometres south of my birthplace. Had I known that you were there, I would have sent my entire extended family to visit you. They would have enjoyed the respite from sitting around the curling rink, chewing moosehide. Although, in deference to their advancing years, they no longer chew the hide while it is on the moose. Settling your various accounts has become a matter of some sensitivity with the Snooze editors. They have begun to doubt the monetary value of several hundred tons of autographed copies of FidoNews 11-39 Page: 3 26 Sep 1994 the book: "My Short Life in Politics, by Mark Skaff." I fear that we will have to supply them with several volumes, all signed in jello, of Bill Clinton's "Conquering Unarmed Third World Countries for Peace, Prosperity & Primary Votes." The appearance of our comatose but still twitching RC was indeed a pleasant surprise. The patterning sessions are going remarkably well and he has begun to explain in short, partial confessions, how it is possible for someone with more than one working neuron to be able to foul up the nodelist submission week after week. His ass/elbow coordination powers have not yet advanced to the stage where he is capable of distributing the snooze but I shall burn prayer incense at the First Church of Appliantology & Dayglo Black Velvet Paintings for his speedy recovery. I also fear that the ZC, Bob Satti (cue the heavenly choir of angels) has disappeared. He seems incapable of answering the simplest of netmail queries as to why he has left our region in the flippers of such a clearly incompetent nodelist clerk. Perhaps Satti, (cue the large bolts of lightning) recognizes in Rick a sort of kindred spirit since he was singularly incapable of curtailing the hydrophobic GMD weenies in his own net. I suggest you send a covey of wide ankled Gimli princesses to attend to Satti's emergence from narcosis. Speaking of culturally magic moments. I ventured to the Internationally Plowing match in Pembroke and witnessed the crowning of an apparition which they named "Queen of The Furrow." The possible duties of a queen of the furrow haunt me in my sleep, as you can well imagine. I shall eliminate the Glenfiditch IV drip in hopes that these visions abate. The daycare centre of our region, Net250, continues to supply a rich source of amusement. Apparently, in their rush to Balkanize the net they had bought several largish bird baths which they point upwards at the stars, hoping to receive echomail from the lightning-lashed and painfully close to solvent planetary beings. They remind me of those cargo cultists who were so amused by Ms. Labamba when we last visited Borneo. They speak of receiving mail in gigabytes which would be something of a notable accomplishment if only some of them could read. Barry Carter, having seen his ambitions to become Steve Winter's altar boy dashed, has become the conscience of their net, asking repeatedly why they keep appointing the ghost of Richard Nixon's moral heritage to positions of authority in their net. I must go Visage, your secretary has a malevolent gleam in her eyes and fistfuls of Tupperware catalog's in her hands. She is armed and dangerous, Visage and her ill-humour has nothing at all to do with the fact my bodyguard of trained Yaks are not yet housebroken. FidoNews 11-39 Page: 4 26 Sep 1994 Regards, Doc Logger, Trout University, FlinFlon, Manitoba ---------------------------------------------------------------------- New Echo: DIVORCE by Ryan Shaw @ 1:152/67 The DIVORCE Echo Greetings! I would like to introduce a new echo available to all current Fidonet nodes and nodes in "othernets" alike. Please take time to read through the basic echo guidelines below: To: All Re: DIVORCE Echo Guidelines - --------------------------------------------------------------------- Basic Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this echo are those of the writers identified in the header of each message. No other responsibility is expressed or implied for the content of the messages in this echo. Rules to Follow: [1] As is customary in echomail, private messages are not allowed. [2] If you wish to post messages on this echo please try to keep your comments and ideas on a rational level. This will help to facilitate an open and free flowing dialogue. [3] Attempt to quote only relevant text, in order to make your messages more legible, and to lessen the burden on those who pay to move each byte posted in this conference. [4] Direct insults and/or personal attacks will not be tolerated. [5] The moderator reserves the right to banish anyone and/or any system from the distribution chain of this echo. [6] The moderator is the moderator and what he/she says is the last word. Any complaints about moderation will be taken as netmail and filed. Any moderation complaints posted in the echo are off-topic. [7] PGP clear-signed messages =ARE= allowed and encourgaged. PGP encrypted mail is =NOT= allowed. This echo provides a place for people going through a divorce or for people that are victims (usually the children) to air their feelings and thoughts in a comfortable environment. FidoNews 11-39 Page: 5 26 Sep 1994 Ryan Shaw, Moderator of DIVORCE Fidonet 1:152/67 Please contact me via direct netmail if you are interested in the echo. In your message, please include session-level and packet-level passwords as well as your choice of mail compression. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Mike Fuchs Compromises Echolist Entry Password Security MIKE FUCHS COMPROMISES ECHOLIST ENTRY PASSWORD SECURITY By Alan Boritz - 1:2605/102@fidonet.org Never thought you would see a headline like that in Fidonews? I never expected it, either, until a few days ago, when Mike Fuchs (the Echolist Scribe, 1:1/201 aka 1:266/71), removed my Elist conference registration without asking. The conference was ZEC, and it was no longer listed for zone-1 backbone distribution. Since it's former moderator, Dan Buda, had allowed it's Echolist registration to lapse, ZEC was no longer listed in the FIDONET.NA control file, and therefore unavailable to many FidoNet systems that use it to control automatic conference area requests. Moderators are required to register, and maintain registration of backbone conferences, or they risk being removed from distribution. In fact, you can't even get a conference distributed through those channels if it ISN'T registered. Just as SYSOP was to be removed from backbone distribution, the last time it's registration dropped out of the Echolist, ZEC was in the same boat. I submitted an entry, a whole month after the Echolist registration had lapsed, and registered ZEC, as you can see now in the September, 1994, edition of the Echolist. As a result of my registration, ZEC was restored to the FIDONET.NA control file, and systems would no longer have difficulty requesting the conference. Problem solved, right? Wrong. Eleven days after submitting my Echolist entry, this came through the ECHOLIST conference: The following reflects the current entry in The International EchoList database on 11-Sep-94 8:38:53 pm Tagname: ZEC Area Key: ZEC Title: Zone 1 Echomail Coordinator Echo Conference Description: A conference for Fidonet Sysops to discuss Echomail related subjects with the Z1EC. No flaming allowed. This is not a debate conference, it's a discussion and Q & A conference. An Administrative conference. The moderator reserves the right to ban individuals from the conference due to disruptive behaviour. Origin: 1:1/200 Distribution: Backbone Gateways: FidoNews 11-39 Page: 6 26 Sep 1994 # Nodes: 200 Volume: 100/Week Rule File: Flags: Moderators: Adrian Walker, 1:1/200@fidonet.org Seen by: Paths: Date added: 31-Aug-94 Last changed: 11-Sep-94 Changed by: Mike Fuchs, 1:266/71 --- ELISTUPD/2 2.2.4 But, hey, didn't *I* just register a ZEC conference? Not according to Mike Fuchs: Tue 13 Sep 94 9:01p By: Mike Fuchs, The Dog's Breakfast (1:266/71) To: Alan Boritz Re: Tag: ZEC was Updated. St: Pvt Rcvd -------------------------------------------------------------------- CC: Adrian Walker In a message of , Alan Boritz (1:2605/102@fidonet.org) wrote: AB>Hey, what's going on here, Mike? Are you taking it upon AB>yourself to censor Echolist entries? Why did you remove my AB>echolist entry? The EchoList entry in question purports itself to be a Zone 1 Backbone conference, making it subject to acceptance or rejection of the Zone 1 EchoMail Coordinator. The new Zone 1 EchoMail coordinator (per the Zone 1 Nodelist) at 1:1/200 identified the entry to be invalid and provided instructions for correcting it. If you have a question regarding Backbone conference entries, please contact the coordinator of that Backbone. -- Did you know that the "zec" accepts or rejects "backbone" entries? Apparently no one else knows that, either, except, perhaps Mike Fuchs. Adrian Walker's recent description of the "zec's" duties don't even mention the word "backbone" ONCE. We're told in several supporting documents that the Echolist Scribe is not an "official" part of the FidoNet echomail distribution system. Mike Fuchs tells us, in the current moderator update instructions (ELTECREF.TXT, in archive ELMOD933.LZH), that: "2. ECHOMAIL DISTRIBUTION BACKBONES A clarification is needed on the subject of EchoMail backbones and backbone conferences. The EchoList is not an official publication of any of the backbones, zones, networks or FidoNet. It is an open, free directory of information on ANY EchoMail conference, anywhere. FidoNews 11-39 Page: 7 26 Sep 1994 "However, a couple of distribution backbones have implemented a requirement (which I heartily endorse) that any conference they carry must have a Moderator and description publicly identified. The Zone 1 EchoMail Coordinator (among others) has decided to use the EchoList as a convenient repository for official information on backbone conferences. So the only exception to the EchoList's voluntary status is that dictated by the distribution backbone you may choose to use. If you are using one of these backbones you must list, at a minimum, the Tag name, the Title, and the Moderators name and node number. "I have no direct involvement in the distribution or administration of EchoMail itself. Any rules governing your conference need to be obtained from your network and/or distribution backbone." Mr. Fuchs also tells us that the Echolist is strictly informal (from the header of the current Echolist): "The EchoList is an informal, international listing of EchoMail Conferences as described and submitted by each conference's moderator." In addition, Mr. Fuchs tells us that the Echolist will allow multiple entries for conferences with the same tag name:' "In addition to the Tag name, the EchoList implements a derived Key field for each conference. You can ignore the existence of this internal Key in all but the most unusual situations. It is used to provide a unique, DOS file name compatible abbreviation of the Tag, and to allow multiple conferences with the same Tag (perhaps in different networks) to maintain independent EchoList entries." So where did this recent requirement for "acceptance or rejection" by the "zec" come from? From Mr. Fuchs' imagination, apparently. Perhaps a more accurate description of Mr. Fuchs' off-the-cuff excuse could be, "'cause I felt like it." Since the Echolist allows multiple entries with the same tag name, there was no technical reason why Adrian Walker could not register his own entry, rather than plagiarize MY entry. It's especially significant, since no one bothered to ASK me, before I could offer the password to the next moderator of the conference. It's really disappointing that what we've come to regard as a great collective reference work, and an example to other networks of a clever working tool, is nothing but the play-toy of a spoiled brat. There's no need to file policy complaints, or beg/plead/threaten people to remove or change a conference's moderator or backbone distribution standard, just find out Mr. Fuchs' price to compromise a password and snip out an Elist entry. Was Mike Fuchs dishonest in his intent? It sure looks that FidoNews 11-39 Page: 8 26 Sep 1994 way. Do we need ANOTHER conference registry, beyond manipulation by control-freaks? Absolutely. Will YOUR Echolist entry be snipped out if you anger the "backbone boys?" Only the Shadow knows... -#- ---------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------- ******* **** * * * * * ******* ***** **** **** ***** * * * **** ***** * * * * **** * * * * * * ** * ******* * **** * * * * * * **** **** * --------------------------------------------------------------------- What Is StormNet? StormNet is an alternative network for use with FidoNet compatible software. We pass messages back and forth both in netmail and in echomail conferences. In StormNet, each node is welcomed and assisted in many ways by other StormNet members. We have active echomail areas and a growing file echo selection. Our echomail traffic is growing every day, and are now pulling more mail ever than before. StormNet has a friendlier atmosphere than can be found in many other networks. StormNet has been in existence for over two years, and in that time, has grown significantly. Our membership has changed from an inexperienced group of local nodes to a more mature group of people from all over the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia. Currently, we have over 250 nodes in StormNet, and are expanding every week! * Why is StormNet here? StormNet was started for a few reasons. When we created it, we wanted to serve teens, adults, and others worldwide with a quality alternative network that is relatively cheap to pull in. Most of our high speed transfers take less than a minute. Although we prefer it, you don't have to poll every day, we are flexible and will allow you to poll whenever you like. We want to serve you with the finest quality echomail and files for you and your users. We are considerably smaller than FidoNet, and therefore do not have the overflow of mail/files often seen in its conferences. The average cost per month for one who pulls StormNet and polls daily is around $6.00-7.00 within the US. * What are the rules like? StormNet? Rules? You've got to be kidding me. Well, it's not like we don't have any rules; all of the rules in our policy statement basically stem from one basic principle - "Be nice and use common sense." The policy's specifics were written to outline some problems which may potentially arise when people aren't nice and FidoNews 11-39 Page: 9 26 Sep 1994 don't use common sense. The SNAC (StormNet Advisory Council) helps to ensure the smooth running of StormNet affairs. StormNet does not discriminate because of age, sex, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, beliefs, taste in food, opinion on world politics, or favorite color. We welcome anyone who is interested in joining a fun network to try out StormNet. We also don't allow "bashing", spindling or other forms of mutilation of groups in our newsletters, or any of our echos (excluding WAR_ZONE), and other parts of our network. * What are the echos like? We have a variety of conferences to suit most needs. If you are a user of StormNet, or a node, you can request an echo if you feel it would be active. We have echos on many subjects, A to Z (as we say SN_A to SN_Z). We have a talented staff of moderators and co-moderators, and combined with the efforts of our international echomail coordinator, keep the network running smoothly. * Internet... Yes, Internet! StormNet is now registered in the domain listings as "storm.net". All StormNet nodes can use our UUCP host to send messages anywhere on Internet at no additional cost to you. * Vanity Internet addresses The StormNet International Internet Coordinator has just recently allowed a "vanity" name that you can apply for once you join StormNet. This can be just about anything, and saves typing. For example, "John.Doe@johnsbbs.storm.net" is alot easier to remember than "John.Doe@f104.n192.usa.storm.net." * Support StormNet has support sites for different types of software. We currently have technical support nodes/echos for BinkleyTerm, EzyCom, Maximus, Proboard, RemoteAccess, Storm Watch Software, and T.A.G.. New technical support nodes for other software are permitted and encouraged. When you apply for technical support, you will get a flag in the nodelist designating you as a support site. You also get your name added to the list of technical support nodes at the bottom of the nodelist. And finally, you have the option to add file and message echos software you support. * What we're looking for StormNet is looking for nodes who want to pull in high quality echomail at a relatively cheap price. Ones who think they would like StormNet to be on their BBSes or computers. We also are looking for new zones to create all the time. StormNet is not just limited to North America, other continents and FidoNews 11-39 Page: 10 26 Sep 1994 countries are already members, but we would like more. We'd like to expand StormNet worldwide, and we think that everyone would benefit from this and it would strengthen relations and understanding between other nations. It already has. With European and Asian nodes, StormNet has a very unique atmosphere where you will regularly chat with people not in the same country, or continent as you. We are willing to work with you to install a new zone in/on your country/continent. * Why should I consider StormNet? We respect each and every StormNet member and his/her rights. We offer our services to all. We have a great network setup. We want all to join and have a good time in the network that we have created. We're proud of our network. We offer a unique and quaint atmosphere not found on any other network. We guarantee it. If you have any questions, comments, or problems, feel free to contact any of the nodes listed below. We'd be glad to help you. Alan Jurison StormNet Int'l EchoMail Coordinator You may F'req or download "STORMNET" (or STORMNET.ARJ) from these nodes: BBS : Ham-Net BBS Position : StormNet Int'l HQ / IEC / Int'l ZoneGate / Mid Atlantic RC SysOp : Alan Jurison Location : Manlius, New York, USA Data Phone : 1-315-682-1824 Voice Phone: 1-315-682-9411 (14:00-23:00 *EST/EDT*) FidoNet : (1:260/375) StormNet : (181:181/1) InterNet : Alan.Jurison@iec.storm.net Speed(s) : 14,400 v32b -- 21,600 HST/Terbo - 28,800 VFC/V34 BBS : *A*R*T*H*U*R* BBS Position : StormNet Nodelist Coordinator / Detroit Area NC SysOp : Victor Capton Location : Troy, Michigan, USA Data Phone : 1-810-740-8764 FidoNet : (1:120/120) StormNet : (181:181/2) InterNet : Victor.Capton@inc.storm.net Speed(s) : 14,400 v32b -- 21,600 HST/Terbo - 28,800 VFC/V34 BBS : ASA CompuHelp Positions : StormNet United States ZC / Ohio Valley RC SysOp : Jeff Binkley Location : Gahana, Ohio, USA Data Phone : 1-614-476-3723 FidoNet : (1:226/600) StormNet : (181:181/0) InterNet : Jeff.Binkley@zc.usa.storm.net Speed(s) : 14,400 v32b -- 14,400 HST FidoNews 11-39 Page: 11 26 Sep 1994 BBS : New Era BBS Positions : StormNet Canada ZC SysOp : Mauro Incrocci Location : Kelowna, British Coloumbia, Canada Data Phone : 1-604-762-6239 FidoNet : (1:353/210) StormNet : (182:182/0) InterNet : Mauro.Incrocci@zc.can.storm.net Speed(s) : 14,400 v32b -- 28,800 VFC BBS : The Rising Sun BBS Positions : StormNet Europe ZC / North Central RC SysOp : Jens Fendler Location : Destedt, Germany Data Phone : +49-5306-7824 FidoNet : (2:241/510) StormNet : (183:183/0) InterNet : Jens Fendler@zc.eur.storm.net Speed(s) : 14,400.v32b -- 28,800 VFC BBS : Data Matrix Positions : StormNet Asia ZC / Malaysia RC SysOp : Azuan Yazdani Location : Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Data Phone : +60-3-2735826 FidoNet : (6:609/79) StormNet : (184:184/0) InterNet : Azuan Yazdani@zc.asia.storm.net Speed(s) : 14,400.v32b Thank you for your time! We hope to see you soon! ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Regarding the re-engineering of net 6:700 By: Nils Hammar, 2:205/601@fidonet nils@bod.fdata.se 4341@msg.abc.se Regarding the "Re-engineering of Net 700", I can say that it seems like the RC have appointed a NC that isn't supported by the nodes in the net in question. This isn't a good situation, and from what I can tell, the RC is a servant, not a master when assigning a new NC. If the RC is assigning a NC that isn't accepted by the majority in the network, then the RC has failed and should either resign as RC or make a new assignment in cooperation with the nodes in the net in question. However, there has to be an easier way to solve this than via FidoNews, which only annoys the readers. Since this article from "Chris Leung (6:700/703 aka 6:700/0)" seems to be written by the recently appointed NC, I think that FidoNews 11-39 Page: 12 26 Sep 1994 it is he that has the most problem, and tries to gain power, but since I can't review all nodes in that net and check their opinion, I am unable to tell who is right and who is wrong. What I think is the most important thing with the nodelist isn't if all nodes are geographically correct, but that the entries reflects the right phone number connected to right sysop and node address, so that I wouldn't wake up Aunt Clara several times at ZMH for that zone during a week or two... THE NODELIST IS OUR MAP TO THE REALITY - TRY TO KEEP IT UP TO DATE! (Don't try to change the reality to reflect the nodelist - it doesn't work...) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- New government elected in Sweden 18. September 1994 By: Nils Hammar, 2:205/601@fidonet nils@bod.fdata.se 4341@msg.abc.se What about this subject in Fidonews then? What has the election of a new government in Sweden to do with our hobby? (I hope that most of us has this as a hobby) Continue to read, and you will probably get some visions at least! The special thing with this election was that this was the first time that internet was used to spread information about the result of the election during the counting of votes! There was two methods used, one where all newspapers in Sweden got the results via email (except one newspaper that got it via fax), and the other method was that the results could be picked up by anybody who had a computer running Mosaic connected to the internet. This service wasn't restricted to sites in Sweden, and the information is still possible to access (as far as I know). I was checking the results myself during the election with a workstation running Mosaic, and it was really interesting to see how the numbers changed depending on which part of the country I was examining. It was even possible to see the raw data, and check exactly how many votes that was given in each district and sub-district. The results was also presented graphically, both in a bar-diagram and in a pie-diagram. Information about the election was available both in Swedish and in English at the WWW-server. At the peak the WWW-server received one call per second, which isn't bad at all! Anybody that want to check some more about this can start Mosaic on their workstation or PC and open the URL "http://www.swip.net/val94". Here is also some information about the swedish governmental system. FidoNews 11-39 Page: 13 26 Sep 1994 This is written with the reservation that this WWW-server still runs this information. I am only waiting for the next country to use this kind of service in their elections! I think that Denmark isn't going to be the next country, since they had their election this Wednesday. (21. September 1994.) Anybody that knows something about any other country using a similar method could as well write an article here in FidoNews! ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Drear Madam Emilia 140 cat cat 120 cat cat 100 cat dog cat 80 dog cat dog cat bear 60 dog cat bear dog cat bear 40 dog cat bear dog cat bear 20 dog cat bear dog cat bear armadillo Q: What are the most popular animals in FidoNet according to frequency of use in BBS names ? [in decimal numbers] ---------------------------------------------------------------------- reprinted from: Computer underground Digest Wed Sep 8, 1994 Volume 6 : Issue 79 ISSN 1004-042X Date: Thu, 1 Sep 1994 11:52:49 -0400 (EDT) From: Mike Godwin Subject: File 1--New indecency rules proposed for all online services (fwd) (MODERATORS' NOTE: In CuD 6.76 we ran a post on the Exon Amendment to S 1822. S.AMDT.2404, sponsored by Senator J. James Exon (D. Neb.), raised concerns that proposed federal restrictions on "indecency" could adversely affect computer communications by placing the onus of liability on the carrier. Contrary to some reports, the EFF does not approve of the amendment. For those wishing further information, the full Bill is: S. 1822 (Sponsored by Sen. Ernest F. Hollings, D., S. Car.). Official Title: A BILL TO FOSTER THE FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF THE FidoNews 11-39 Page: 14 26 Sep 1994 NATION'S TELECOMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE AND PROTECTION OF THE PUBLIC INTEREST, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. At last report, the Bill (with the amendment) has been referred to the Senate Committee on Commerce (on 26 July). We're not aware of subsequent action taken since. The following fowarded post clarifies the amendment)). From farber@eff.org Thu Sep 1 10:47:31 1994 Posted-Date--Thu, 1 Sep 1994 09:29:09 -0400 Date--Thu, 25 Aug 1994 14:32:40 -0600 From--djw@eff.org (Daniel J. Weitzner) I. Overview During the final hours before the Senate telecommunications bill (S.1822) was marked-up by the Senate Commerce Committee, a provision was added which would expand the current FCC regulation on obscene and indecent audiotext (900 number) services to virtually all electronic information services, including commercial online service providers, the Internet, and BBS operators. This proposal, introduced by Senator Exon, would require all information service providers and all other electronic communication service providers, to take steps to assure that minors do not have access to obscene or indecent material through the services offered by the service provider. Placing the onus, and criminal liability, on the carrier, as opposed to the originator of the content, threatens to limit the free flow of all kinds of information in the online world. If carriers are operating under the threat of criminal liability for all of the content on their services, they will be forced to pre-screen all messages and limit both the privacy and free expression of the users of these services. Senator Exon's amendment raises fundamental questions about the locus on liability for harm done from content in new digital communications media. These questions must be discussed in a way that assures the free flow of information and holds content originators responsible for their actions. II. Summary of Exon Amendment The Exon amendment which is now part of S.1822, expands section of the Communications Act to cover anyone who "makes, transmits, or otherwise makes available" obscene or indecent communication. It makes no distinction between those entities which transmit the communications from those which create, process, or use the communication. This section of the Communications Act was originally intended to criminalize harassment accomplished over interstate telephone lines, and to require telephone companies that offer indecent 900 number services to prevent minors from having access to such services. The 900 number portions are known as the Helms Amendments, having been championed by Senator Jesse Helms. These sections have been the subject of extension constitutional litigation. If enacted into law, these amendments would require that anyone who "makes, transmits, or otherwise makes available" indecent communication take prescribed steps to assure that minors are FidoNews 11-39 Page: 15 26 Sep 1994 prevented from having access to these communications. In the case of 900 numbers, acceptable procedures include written verification of a subscriber's age, payment by credit card, or use of a scrambling device given to the subscriber after having verified his or her age. Failure to do so would result in up to a $100,000 fine or up to two years imprisonment. III. Carrier Liability and Threats to the Free Flow of Information These provisions raise serious First Amendment concerns. (Note that we use the term 'carrier' here to refer to a wide range of information and communication service providers. This does not suggest that these entities are, or should be, common carriers in the traditional sense of the term.) Overbroad carrier liability forces carriers to stifle the free flow of information on their systems and to act as private censors If carriers are responsible for the content of all information and communication on their systems, then they will be forced to attempt to screen all content before it is allowed to enter the system. In many cases, this would be simply impossible. But even where it is possible, such pre-screening can severely limit the diversity and free flow of information in the online world. To be sure, some system operators will want to offer services that pre-screen content. However, if all systems were forced to do so, the usefulness of digital media as communication and information dissemination systems would be drastically limited. Where possible, we must avoid legal structures which force those who merely carry messages to screen their content. Carriers are often legally prohibited from screening messages In fact, under the Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986, electronic communication service providers are generally prohibited from examining the contents of messages or information carrier from one subscriber to another. Extension of the 900 number rules to all electronic information services may be unconstitutional The regulation of indecent 900 number programming was only accomplished after nearly a decade of constitutional litigation, with rules being overturned by the Supreme Court. The regulations were finally found constitutional only after being substantially narrowed to meet First Amendment scrutiny. Since the access methods offered by online service providers are significantly different than simple telephone access to 900 services, we doubt that the same constitutional justifications would support the newly expanded rules. This issue requires considerable study and analysis. Content creators, or those who represent the content as their own, should be responsible for liability arising out of the content In sum, it should be content originators, not carriers, who are FidoNews 11-39 Page: 16 26 Sep 1994 responsible for their content. Any other approach will stifle the free flow of information in the new digital media. IV. Next Steps Having only just received the language offered by Senator Exon, EFF still needs to do further analysis, and consult with others in the online community. We also hope to speak with Senator Exon's staff to understand their intent. Another important hearing will be held on S.1822 in mid-September by the Senate Judiciary Committee. By that time, we hope to have this issue resolved. While we agree that these carrier liability problems are in need of Congressional consideration, we do not believe that the time is ripe to act. Before any action is taken, hearings must be held and careful evaluation of all the issues, not just indecency, must be undertaken. Daniel J. Weitzner, Deputy Policy Director, Electronic Frontier Foundation, 1001 G St. NW Suite 950 East, Washington, DC 20001 +1 202-347-5400(v) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- If you are a Rottweiler lover If you are a Rottweiler lover, trainer, owner, handler, breeder, rescuer, or just interested in learning more about them, there is an echo for you. It is called ROTTIES. Currently it is privately distributed until we can increase the number of systems carrying it, and increase the message traffic, to levels that would merit its inclusion on the FidoNet Backbone. If you are a sysop contact one of the following people for a feed to the echo. You will have to make your own arrangements with the system operator as to whether you will be polling them for mail or they will be polling you for mail. If you are not a sysop and are interested, ask your sysop to contact one of the following and pick it up for you. Jacob Eagle Eyes, 1:3603/263 Sandeleh Francis, 1:205/31 Michael Stroh, 1:363/603 Kathleen Weaver, 1:124/4220 Are there any others willing to provide a feed? Let me know and I'll add you to the list. [It may also be available on some Regional distribution channels. Ask your REC to carry it if it isn't already available!] FidoNews 11-39 Page: 17 26 Sep 1994 ======================================================================== Fidonews Information ======================================================================== ------- FIDONEWS MASTHEAD AND CONTACT INFORMATION ---------------- Editors: Sylvia Maxwell, Donald Tees Editors Emeritii: Thom Henderson, Dale Lovell, Vince Perriello, Tim Pozar Tom Jennings "FidoNews" BBS FidoNet 1:1/23 BBS +1-519-570-4176, 300/1200/2400/14400/V.32bis/HST(DS) more addresses: Rev. Richard Visage -- 1:163/409 Don -- 1:221/192, don@exlibris.tdkcs.waterloo.on.ca sylvia -- 1:221/194, max@exlibris.tdkcs.waterloo.on.ca Tim -- pozar@kumr.lns.com (Postal Service mailing address) FidoNews 128 Church St. Kitchener, Ontario Canada N2H 2S4 max & Don voice: (519) 570-3137 Fidonews is published weekly by and for the members of the FIDONET INTERNATIONAL AMATEUR ELECTRONIC MAIL system. It is a compilation of individual articles contributed by their authors or their authorized agents. The contribution of articles to this compilation does not diminish the rights of the authors. Opinions expressed in these articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of FidoNews. Authors retain copyright on individual works; otherwise FidoNews is Copyright 1994 Sylvia Maxwell. All rights reserved. Duplication and/or distribution permitted for noncommercial purposes only. For use in other circumstances, please contact the original authors, or the eds. OBTAINING COPIES: The most recent issue of FidoNews in electronic form may be obtained from the FidoNews BBS via manual download or Wazoo FileRequest, or from various sites in the FidoNet and Internet. PRINTED COPIES may be obtained by sending SASE to the above paper-mail address, or trade for copy of your 'zine. INTERNET USERS: FidoNews is available via FTP from ftp.fidonet.org, in directory ~ftp/pub/fidonet/fidonews. Anyone interested in getting a copy of the INTERNET GATEWAY FAQ may freq GISFAQ.ZIP from 1:133/411.0, or send an internet message to fidofaq@gisatl.fidonet.org. No message or text or subject is FidoNews 11-39 Page: 18 26 Sep 1994 necessary. The address is a keyword that will trigger the automated response. People wishing to send inquiries directly to David Deitch should now mail to fidonet@gisatl.fidonet.org rather than the previously listed address. SUBMISSIONS: You are encouraged to submit articles for publication in FidoNews. Article submission requirements are contained in the file ARTSPEC.DOC, available from the FidoNews BBS, or Wazoo filerequestable from 1:1/23 as file "ARTSPEC.DOC". Please read it. "Fido", "FidoNet" and the dog-with-diskette are U.S. registered trademarks of Tom Jennings, and are used with permission. "the pulse of the cursor is the heartbeat of fidonet"... -- END ----------------------------------------------------------------------