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Talk Back: Should Anonymous Comments Be Banned?

A bill in the state Senate would force commenters to use name when asked.

A bill in the New York State Senate could limit anonymous comments on websites.

The "Internet Protection Act" would require the web administrator of any New York-based site, including blogs, social networks, online publications and message boards, to "remove any comments posted on his or her website by an anonymous poster unless such anonymous poster agrees to attach his or her name to the post," upon request.

Two of the bill's sponsors, Assemb. Dean Murray and Sen. Thomas O'Mara, say the goal is to fight cyberbullying.

What do you think? Does the right to express an opinion outweigh the rights of others not to feel abused?

Vote in our poll and tell us in the comments.

Robert Christiansen June 8, 2012 at 11:55 am
No. Every law will ultimately be corrupted to it's worse possible use.
Jake J. June 8, 2012 at 02:54 pm
Anonymity serves numerous purposes, not just so you could bully someone. Sites should have the right to delete offending comments when necessary, but not be required to ban anonymous comments altogether. Although it sounds like it might be optional? "attach his or name UPON REQUEST" Meaning if you post something questionable, and the site then requests you to provide your name, and you don't want to, then they just won't post your comment. I guess it's kinda the same thing.

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Just a short thought to get the word out quickly about anything in your neighborhood.
Share something with your neighbors. Write a new post... What's up? Make an announcement, speak your mind, or sell something
dangerous minds June 16, 2013 at 08:45 am
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Valerie June 18, 2013 at 07:51 am
Matthew I couldn't agree more.
Chris Johansen June 18, 2013 at 07:59 am
Dangerous Minds call me