The court dismissed the claim of Steve Wozniak against YouTube – Bits Media

The judge dismissed the claim, filed by Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak v. YouTube for posting fraudulent videos of Bitcoin giveaways on his behalf.

According to the court order, YouTube platform is not responsible for advertising fraudulent cryptocurrency scheme. Santa Clara County Superior Court Judge Sunil Kulkarnia (Sunil Kulkarnia) explained, that YouTube and its parent company Google are protected by Section 230 "Media Decency Act", which exempts Internet platforms from liability for content, posted on them by third parties.

Last July, Wozniak sued YouTube for publishing a fake video of a BTC giveaway in his name.. The attackers urged gullible users to send cryptocurrency to the specified address, promising to return double the amount to them. Wozniak claims, that YouTube never removed this video, which spoils his reputation. Thus, YouTube contributes to the development of fraud., making money from targeted advertising, which is posted on video channels with high traffic.  

“If YouTube acted quickly, this could have been stopped, and I wouldn't be here. If YouTube sees such messages and does not ban the criminals, Means, he benefits from it", – Wozniak said.

The court considers, that Wozniak's arguments are not enough, to challenge YouTube's exemption from liability, provided for by Section 230. However, during 30 days, the Apple co-founder can file a second lawsuit.

Wozniak – not the only entrepreneur, leading the fight against the posting of fake videos on YouTube. In April 2020 of the year Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse (Brad Garlinghouse) also filed a lawsuit against this site for publishing fraudulent videos about the “free” distribution of XRP, accusing her of deliberate inaction and lack of measures to suppress the actions of criminals, posing as famous personalities.

A few months ago, Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson (Charles Hoskinson) brought similar charges to the YouTube and Twitter platforms. Hoskinson announced his readiness to leave all social networks, if the situation doesn't change. Note, that the court decision on Wozniak’s claim was made on the same day, when Google allowed cryptocurrency exchanges and wallets with 3 August to advertise its services to US citizens.