Free Republic

In a recent hissy-fit , Apple Computer got bent out of shape after revelations about a future product appeared on three different websites that specialize in news and gossip about the company. Risking customer alienation, the company sued and demanded that the sites turn over information as to the derivation of the information. Immediately the Internet, particularly the so-called blogosphere, began a flame war regarding Apple's lawsuits. These sites, after all were Apple boosters. It made no sense for Apple to attack them. The brouhaha regards a product code-named "Asteroid." Asteroid is reportedly nothing more than an inexpensive device called...

Terry Gross of Gross & Belsky LLP, a lawyer at the forefront of Internet law since the net's early days, will defend Mac news Web site Think Secret from a lawsuit brought by Apple Computer Inc. "Apple's attempt to silence a small publication's news reporting presents a troubling affront to the protections of the First Amendment," said Nick dePlume, the site's publisher and editor in chief. "I'm grateful that Mr. Gross has stepped forward to help defend these crucial freedoms."

Apple Sues Think Secret CNET News reports that Apple is suing rumor site Think Secret for posting Apple trade secrets and for encouraging and inducing persons to provide product information in breach of agreements. Previously, Apple had named ThinkSecret.com, along with AppleInsider.com and PowerPage.org, in subpoenas while tracking down leaks of information about Asteroid. The court filings list particular Think Secret articles, including the headless iMac and iLife '05 stories, without identifying which reported details are true. "Apple has filed a civil complaint against the owner of ThinkSecret.com and unnamed individuals who we believe stole Apple's trade secrets," Apple said...