EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
Anonymous, net neutrality 2017
Prior to today’s FCC hearing, hacktivist group Anonymous vowed to conduct a destructive cyber attack. This is in protest of plans to dismantle net neutrality. Now, news reports indicate that the FCC did, in fact, vote to end protections for neutrality.
Just before the vote, Cecilia Kang from The New York Times reports that security guards abruptly entered the hearing room at the FCC and asked everyone to leave the room. Writes Kang, “Commissioners were ushered out a separate back door. The hearing restarted a short time later.” The move to deregulate passed along party lines, 3-2, with the Republicans prevailing.
Net neutrality regulations have been in place to prevent broadband providers from overcharging for certain content or services, to ensure a more even playing field for consumers who have come to rely on the internet for communications and other aspects of their lives.
According to International Business Times, “On Tuesday (12 December), a Twitter account that circulates news about the hacktivist group tweeted, ‘Anonymous to begin ‘destructive’ cyberattack on FCC.gov for the next 48 hours in response to #NetNeutrality.'”
International Business Times also reports that a video broadcast shows a person wearing the traditional Anonymous disguise–a Guy Fawkes mask. The person says, “We will block and restrict access to websites through DDoS attacks and target those responsible should the FCC choose to move forward with the removal of net neutrality.”
Internet providers crushing the web?
As December 14th approaches, online activists and celebrities have suggested that, in the event of a net neutrality repeal, internet providers may abuse the web. In addition, previous efforts to disrupt net neutrality regulations in the US have resulted in widespread outrage. How far will the latest campaigns take their work?
The FCC and the Federal Trade Commission have reportedly concocted a plan to work together after net neutrality disappears. While this story unfolded #NetNeutrality, #SaveNetNeutrality emerged as popular tags on Twitter. Social media accounts piled up with stories documenting the fight. For more on Anonymous net neutrality 2017, read the full story at International Business Times.
