#dispute resolution

[uncleasad]

On zero-days, shades of grey, and digital mobs

This week has been a month, hasn’t it?

I hope you are all holding up as best as you can and have safe spaces and support systems to lean back on.

Over the course of this week, I’ve had a front-row seat to witness digital mobs come after people and rip apart two extremely different online communities, and it’s disheartening to witness how quickly everything snowballed into hellfire, whether it was deserved or not.

I wish that in online spaces there were a way for a concerned party to contact a trusted third party that the victim/concerned party and the accused both felt would be fair and have that party mediate between them, instead of resorting to direct confrontation and call-outs.

Everyone is at their worst in this initial stage—angry, defensive, scared, embarrassed, ashamed, hurt—and fight-or-flight takes over. The person who believes themselves to be a victim is fighting mad, and the person who has been accused—whether they truly screwed up, made an innocent mistake, or it was all a misunderstanding—either wants to run and hide in their shame, or they stand their ground, also fighting mad. No good can come from a situation like this. Even less good can come from it if it all takes place in public, in front of everyone, and mobs start to form, piling on one or the other.

Mob justice is not justice.

No one will want to admit they were wrong, screwed up, made a mistake, if they know a mob is coming after them. If our goal is to have a good and just community, where people can learn from their mistakes, errors, and other screwups, become better people, and strengthen the community in the end, mobs are not the answer. (Few things, especially online, should be something that someone can’t come back from.) Mobs are the unleashing of anger at anyone and everyone in their path. They’ve burned down the town before anyone can hear other sides to the story, much less establish an objective truth. (I know; I’ve been part of one. I felt completely justified.)

We want to see everything in binary, in clean, clear black and white. The truth is, the world and most situations fall in shades of grey. Some things are fuzzy, and others we should evaluate on a sliding scale…did they know that X was wrong or hurtful? Was it intentional? Have they done Y repeatedly? (I don’t know if that person knew it was wrong. I do know they had done it to dozens of fics. I don’t know if they’ve done it again after being told it was wrong. It was 100% presenting unchanged works of others as theirs, out and out theft.* But because no one ever talked to the person or an intermediary, all we know is the account was…deleted? closed? put in time out? We don’t even know that, just that their page and the fics no longer loaded after a couple of days of reporting the stolen fics. But we got our blood and pound of flesh, so…)

If we could slow things down, we have a better chance of learning all the relevant information. If we keep things outside of the public eye initially, we have a better chance of a just and peaceful resolution that keeps our communities together, helps people learn and grow and become better contributors to society/the community. (Again, this outcome might not be possible in all cases. It also might not be a just result in all cases; some cases may call for more severe consequences, such as removal from the community.)

I know some of you are out there shouting “But what about accountability!? If everything’s kept quiet, no one knows/N is gonna do it again.” I have a process for that, too. Let’s switch gears in our analogies for a moment.

In software (and occasionally hardware) security, the usual process for reporting a security bug goes like this:

You report the security bug to the vendor via their security bug submission procedure (e.g., you email securitybugs AT tumblr.com [dunno if that is real] and tell them you’ve discovered a bug that lets you see someone else’s Inbox, and how to cause it)

The vendor acknowledges your report and you might go back and forth about how to trigger the bug, or, in some cases, whether it really is a security bug (our example bug really is, if it were real!), or how serious/easily exploitable it is, which is a proxy for how quickly it needs to be fixed

The vendor fixes the bug

The vendor ships the fix to everyone (in our example, updates the tumblr website or tumblr app, depending on where the bug was)

The vendor announces there was a bug and they’ve fixed it, and thanks the reporter

This is called responsible disclosure. It works great, and everyone is happy (except the bad actors who were using the bug to access other people’s inboxes!).

The opposite of responsible disclosure is known as a zero-day (or 0-day). That’s when a security bug is announced without a fix available. This happens in 3 cases: 1) when the bug is so serious that everyone needs to know NOW so they stop using the piece of software (or delete their information from the software, or whatever) to secure their information/lives, 2) after working with the vendor for some period of time following the established process, the bug reporter feels the vendor is taking too long to fix the problem or doesn’t feel the vendor is taking the bug as seriously as the reporter believes they should, or 3) the person who found the bug doesn’t believe in responsible disclosure (sadly, there are some security researchers in that camp).

(A Zero-Day, and especially Case 3, is basically unleashing a digital mob.)

Back to our online community situations.

In an ideal case, after the intervention of the trusted third party, both the victim/concerned party and the accused release statements. If the accused did indeed do P, their statement should be an apology, what they have learned, and so forth, and the victim probably will acknowledge the apology and note that the two parties have talked and they consider the matter settled, no need for mobs—but also forgiveness is not forced. If things were a misunderstanding, both parties might explain their sides, note they’ve talked it out and consider the matter settled, no need for mobs. Obviously, this varies by case—it’s not all black and white, one size fits all. As an alternative, the trusted third party might also make a report of the facts as best they can tell and the evidence presented.

To ensure things don’t get swept under the rug when a mediated solution is not possible, there are 2 failsafe options. First, our Case 2 from the Zero-Day; after a week or two—remember, we’re trying to slow things down and calm everyone down to allow for better understanding and reflection—the victim/concerned party can then publicly announce the situation and the failed mediation, and/or ask the trusted third party to make a report, perhaps including a transcript of the back-and-forth.

I feel like our online communities would be a lot healthier if we were able to inject just a little bit of real-world processes…a little bit of humanity, of deliberation, of mediation. Everything online is so toxic, and it doesn’t have to be.

I know this is a pipe dream, but maybe by putting it out there, it can do some good somewhere, in some community. After all, if we don’t have hope, what do we have left?

* All theft and plagiarism is wrong, full stop. But the degree of my anger depends on factors such as the extent, intent, and taking responsibility—and not doing it again. And, of course, are you an individual, a fan…or a scummy fic-hoovering AI company?

[notarieslondon]

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[grapefruitdoggo]

Didn't know dispute resolution normally included paddling

[amobilenotary]

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[nperspective01]

Explore expert strategies for CFOs to navigate DCAA dispute resolution, ensure compliance, and protect company profits. This guide covers key aspects of the government contracting process, cost accounting standards, and effective dispute management.

[lawofficeofryansshipp]

Having A Successful Florida Mediation | 561.699.0399

Having A Successful Florida Mediation Mediation can make or break your case. If you want a successful outcome, here’s what you need to know! Tip #1: Be Prepared! Attorneys and their clients must be on the same page. If you show up unprepared, you’ll spend the whole day playing catch-up. Know the facts, the law, and your strategy beforehand. Tip #2: Manage Client Expectations Set realistic…

[lexlawuk]

Compulsory Mediation for Small Claims in England and Wales

The introduction of compulsory mediation for small claims under £10,000 marks a landmark shift in the way disputes will be resolved in England and Wales. Effective from 22 May 2024, this new initiative aims to reduce court backlogs, provide quicker resolutions, and allow more efficient use of court resources. Mediation, which has long been encouraged but never previously compulsory in the Small…

[tenth-sentence]

In the past, it might have been possible to come to some sort of international agreement that would set up a framework for resolving disputes and allocating some sort of rights, whether under common heritage or some other principle, building on the Moon Treaty.

"The Moon: A History for the Future" - Oliver Morton

[leonide-poet]

[cybercrimescomplaint]

Looking to Settle Issues Quickly? Resolve Dispute Resolution Provides Effective Assistance

Disputes can arise in various aspects of life, from personal relationships to business dealings. When such conflicts escalate, it can lead to stress, financial strain, and wasted time. This is where EResolve Dispute Resolution comes into play.

What is Resolve Dispute Resolution?

Resolve Dispute Resolution is a dedicated service provider that specializes in offering effective and efficient solutions to resolve disputes. Our team of experienced professionals is committed to helping individuals and businesses alike find amicable resolutions to their conflicts.

How Can Resolve Dispute Resolution Help You?

Expert Mediation: Our skilled mediators facilitate open communication and understanding between parties involved in a dispute. Through neutral guidance and strategic negotiation techniques, we help you reach mutually agreeable solutions.

Efficient Arbitration: If mediation doesn't yield a satisfactory outcome, our arbitration services provide a formal, binding process to resolve the dispute. Our arbitrators are impartial experts who carefully consider all evidence and arguments before rendering a final decision.

Collaborative Problem-Solving: We believe in fostering a collaborative approach to dispute resolution. By working together with all parties involved, we strive to find creative solutions that address the underlying issues and promote long-term harmony.

Timely and Cost-Effective Solutions: We understand the importance of resolving disputes promptly and efficiently. Our streamlined processes and experienced team ensure that you receive timely and cost-effective solutions.

Why Choose Resolve Dispute Resolution?

Experienced Professionals: Our team comprises highly qualified and experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing exceptional service.

Confidentiality: We maintain strict confidentiality throughout the dispute resolution process, ensuring privacy and trust.

Tailored Solutions: We understand that every dispute is unique. We tailor our approach to meet your specific needs and goals.

Client-Centric Approach: Our focus is on providing you with a positive and satisfying experience. We prioritize your needs and work diligently to achieve the best possible outcome.

Don't let disputes hold you back. Contact EResolve Dispute Resolution today and let us help you find a peaceful and effective resolution.

[notarieslondon]

Family Law Experts: Caring for Your Legal Needs

Our family law services provide expert guidance and support for a range of family matters, including divorce, child custody, spousal support, and adoption. We are committed to protecting your rights and ensuring the best outcomes for you and your loved ones during challenging times.

[navyaylaw]

[idrclondon]

Dispute resolution refers to the array of methods used to resolve conflicts and disagreements between parties outside of the traditional courtroom setting. This can include negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and conciliation. Each method offers a different approach: negotiation involves direct discussions between the parties to reach a mutual agreement, mediation brings in a neutral third party to facilitate a resolution, arbitration allows an impartial arbitrator to make a binding decision, and conciliation seeks to improve the relationship between disputing parties through a conciliator's guidance.

[nperspective01]

Navigating DCAA (Defense Contract Audit Agency) audits and negotiations can be complex, but with the right expertise, CFOs can safeguard their company’s interests and profits.

[trustedlawfirm]

What to Look for in a Law Firm for Expert Dispute Resolution?

A failure to disseminate or address a legal matter expeditiously could be a violation and a menace to the general performance of your business. This is where law firm legal services' value and effectiveness are relevant. A dispute resolution law firm that intends to help you solve your legal issues with more flexibility and precision. So, let’s learn about them in the following lines. 

Things To Consider Before Choosing A Dispute Resolution Law Firm

Learning about dispute resolution agencies through their qualities and services is possible only if you acknowledge the following suggestions:

1. Experts in Legal Access

There is no doubt that the background of the firm that a person hires to handle his or her legal issues is crucial when the issues involve disputes. For example, the firm should have a solid commercial law department if you are in a business-related case.

An experienced dispute resolution attorney can offer different legal services depending on your needs like:

Mediation

Arbitration

Negotiation

Early neutral evaluation

Conciliation

2. Fees and Payment Structures

The financial aspect is also an important factor when choosing a law firm to engage in dispute resolution. Different law firms could work differently with regards to charging and understanding what is going to be owed from the start will help to steer clear of any nasty shocks. One should enquire about the broken-down price estimates and exactly get to know what is included in the quoted price tag. You must avoid those law firms that either do not disclose their charges or those who are not willing to avail the fee schedule to their clients. 

3. Expert Accreditations and Awards

In choosing the law firm for the resolution of disputes, such factors as professional certifications and prizes may be considered as a sign of the firm’s adherence to the values of professionalism and legal ethics. Certifications from such bodies help the firm to portray that it complies with the set standards concerning legal services as well as professionalism.

Conclusion

Not every dispute resolution law firm can indeed defend or fight your case. It requires a proper understanding by your side whom you are choosing and a professional attorney must have enough experience to justify your needs. Otherwise, your time and money will be wasted.

[pejasurveying1]

Discover how quantity surveyors play a crucial role in resolving construction disputes. From cost management to mediation, their expertise ensures efficient conflict resolution, saving time and money. Learn the benefits of involving these professionals in your projects. Contact PEJA Surveying for expert services today.