Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

This is a classic example of why this type of information should just be forwarded to the authorities. Last thing we need is a mob mentality going after someone who may turn up to be innocent; it's happened before, and it can happen again.


Surprise! This type of information IS indeed handed over to the authorities - http://www.reddit.com/r/findbostonbombers/comments/1ck5hl/me...


"just"


Is it really any different when the mob is the FBI?


They aren't really the mob - they are the actual pros who do this all the time. Presumably they aren't going to go and lynch someone because a random tipster emailed them a blurry photo.


Not to mention that official law enforcement has governance in place to at least try to make sure they don't go and lynch someone on a hunch. It might not be perfect, but it's better than the alternatives.


This is the same bunch of <i>professionals</i> that brought you the Waco siege.

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waco_siege


I hardly love the FBI, but I think it's fair to say that they're a far sight above Reddit and fucking 4chan.




Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: