Conclusion.

These few brief examples show the unforeseen use and unintended consequences of the Internet as an instrument of extra judicial process, with actions and outcomes contrary to the rule of law and fair business practice. There are many, many more examples of unfair and/or fraudulent schemes than those listed here. Such schemes based on “bad press” might not seriously harm a major corporation, which can afford the counter-response, but they can ruin a small business, e.g. restaurants which are now routinely scammed for free meals by parties threatening bad press.

Right now the Internet is like the Wild West. We need the rule of law and a Sheriff in town to stop the abuse.