The original subject clearly states that the WHOIS data was the enabling factor to unmask this particular group, that affirmation is what does not convince me.
Well, OK, let's flip it around. Beau and I have told you that we use WHOIS to deal with scams and frauds all the time. Why don't you believe us? Do we have some reason to lie about it?
The current WHOIS rules say that the WHOIS info has to be correct. The various WHOIS privacy services list debatably "correct" info.
Then what's all the fuss about ? who is breaking the rules ?
Large numbers of registrants who put in false information, of course.
Perhaps I put false information because I don't want people noseying around my private information.
If I break the law, let law enforcement deal with me.
And I don't think your lying, I know people who use whois in the way your describing. But if you (and they) are to have access to my personal information, I'd like to know who you are, what your interest is, how you will handle the data you collect (following which privacy regulations, Japan's?)
Adam
The rules, read contract, states that YOU are supposed to put YOUR real information there! I use this information to track down spammers. I know of one spamming company that when sued, switched their whois to be a private service, to escape judgment. As far as legal process and investigations it does not work like that. To get the law enforcement to take action, it has to be shown that there is sufficient numbers/harm present to take action. This applies to individual/civil actions. Without accurate public whois information, how does one determine if the 1000 spam received is from one bad spammer or from 1000 different people who mad a mistake? Should I file a lawsuit for 1 spam? Should the FTC start an investigation over 1 spam? If you want to use a privacy service, then the privacy service should accept liability for your actions. For an invid