Webmentions and Privacy and GDPR

Untitled | David Shanske by David ShanskeDavid Shanske (David Shanske)

And being as I’m as regular contributor, there are a few ideas I’ve floating that I think are a good start, and invite you to contribute more.

  • Add text to the Webmention form that explains how to use it to delete a mention. Since the form can be used without supporting webmentions on your own site, this is something that should be made clear.
  • Add Setting to not display avatar/photo
  • Add ability to edit mentions, to correct inaccurate data.
  • Add setting to store more/less data.
  • Add privacy policy to plugin for those who install it and add text/link to webmention form.
  • Explain how to request a takedown of information.
  • Periodically poll/refresh sources.
  • Allow a different level of processing for ‘native’ webmentions vs backfeed run through a service like Bridgy.

David, I think that Sebastian Greger (and perhaps some of the GDPR) is really concerned about anonymity; not privacy. But I think you have responded reasonably. I don’t think one can expect privacy when acting publicly. Imagine if newspapers had to get permission to quote something I said publicly (especially something controversial)? Or a radio or television news cast couldn’t use footage of my public acts because of “privacy”? I don’t see any level or ethical basis (USA law) for Sebastian‘s position. I expect as the GDPR is implemented we’ll see some challenging consequences of the rules.

Author: Khürt Williams

A human who works in information security and enjoys photography, Formula 1 and craft ale. #nobridge