said by Blackbird:For openers, how would a "simple search engine opt-out feature" actually work to assure that the purported target of a search is, in fact, the actual entity demanding the search results for him/her be blocked
That wouldn't require a need to reinvent the wheel.
Opt-out features are already in place that although not perfect provide a model. Spokeo comes to mind first »
www.spokeo.com/blog/2011 ··· em-worksAlso I couldn't believe for a moment that an effective algorithm is beyond the expertise of the search engines.
If they can index it - they can manage it.
said by Blackbird:- without creating a labyrinth of authentication requirements that themselves might violate more "privacy" than the original search topic they desire to be blocked?
The opt out process could be designed to be invasive, especially if intended to discourage use.
On the other hand it could consist of only data already known to the search engine.
said by Blackbird: Who would administer the "registry", set the rules for authentication, enforce them, umpire protests regarding disagreements, and secure the registry from tampering?
*IF* enough teeth are built into the regulation the search engines would be wise to effectively self regulate.
said by Blackbird: And, perhaps most important, who pays for it all?
That's just a cost of doing business.
said by Blackbird:It would be great if the "search industry" would step forward and itself work out and implement a reasonable approach... but that's certainly not how I'd bet. Hence my cynicism...
Yeah, it will be business as usual until the end of time without legislation with teeth, hence my optimism that the issue is getting attention.