From: IN%"tcmay@got.net" 19-MAY-1996 08:03:24.32

At 12:38 AM 5/19/96, Mark M. wrote:

...

It is possible for someone to operate an anonymous remailer anonymously. Just get a UNIX shell account under a fake name, pay with cash, and set up the remailing software. The identity of the operator of such a remailer would be difficult, if not impossible, to discover.

Now, can a site which "offers" such accounts be held liable? If the site drops an account when presented with _appropriate_ legal papers (a court order, such as an injunction), and if it takes a "hands-off" policy with respect to what customers run in their accounts, then it ought to be safe from actual liability.

Depending on the site (e.g., governmental), it may be ethical not to bother letting the site owner know that you're doing so anonymously. The ethics of this would also vary depending on whether the site owner is legally required to get ID or not.

Ideally, such remailers should require no involvement at all by the account holder. Just a "start" command, by the account holder. (Not the site administrator, as this could be construed as involvement by him.)

But an "instant remailer" (just add water) is needed. Recent questions here on the list about what it takes to run a remailer may mean some advice is needed.

Quite. I'd appreciate it. -Allen