Linux Today Astroturfed by Own Staff

Joe Barr, formerly of LinuxWorld, has broken a pretty serious story. It seems that Kevin Reichard, Executive Editor of Linux/Open Source & Internet Technology Channels at internet.com, has taken a page from the 'Flatfish Book of Impostering' by posting under numerous false identities at Linux Today.

The article explains that Reichard has been posting feedback to the articles under such names as George Tirebiter', 'Will Smith', and 'Tom Dooley.' These false identities frequently posted feedback attacking such people as Alan Cox, Eric Raymond, and Richard Stallman, as well as news sites which competed with Linux Today.

This is very unfortunate. I was a frequent visitor of Linux Today.

Yes it is rather unfortunate. About as unfortunate like the fact that Achin (from Microsoft) fails to both, respond to queries on the silicon valley chat boards, and worse, the replies he give aren't even his! they are structured in such a way that it looks like a press release rather than an 'off the cuff' response by him personally.

Matthew Gardiner

It is unfortunate, no doubt about it. Some LT readers are preparing a petition which should see the light of the web today at a couple of sites. Basically the petition will ask internet.com to end their silence on the issue, to forswear any legal reprisals against the whistleblower(s), and to admit/address/correct the behavior.

I'll post further details when the petition goes live.

See ya, Joe Barr