Disclaimer: Not legal advice. For action steps, see stopkompromat.org.
Legal FAQ
Is pay-to-delete illegal?
In most surveyed jurisdictions, the coercive demand for cryptocurrency to remove published material likely constitutes extortion or blackmail, and false published accusations may constitute defamation. See our jurisdictional survey — application requires case-specific legal analysis.
Does paying create a legal contract?
Generally no. Contracts founded on extortion are void or unenforceable. Mirror domains in the network are not parties to any purge agreement. Payment does not bind 60+ sister sites.
Can I use GDPR if I am not in the EU?
GDPR protects EU/EEA data subjects regardless of operator location. UK GDPR covers UK residents. If operators process your personal data and you are in scope, Article 17 erasure may apply.
Does Section 230 protect kompromat operators?
No. Section 230 immunizes platforms (Google, hosts) from publisher liability for third-party content in most civil cases. It does not protect operators who create unlawful content, and it does not block criminal prosecution.
Can I sue for defamation in the US?
Potentially, if statements are false, published, and cause harm — and you can identify a suable defendant with jurisdictional hook. Anonymous offshore operators present practical barriers. Consult state-licensed counsel.
What is the UK Blackmail Act relevance?
Section 1 criminalizes unwarranted demands with menaces for gain. Demanding crypto to remove damaging articles likely qualifies. Report via Action Fraud.
Does Ukraine Article 189 apply to international victims?
Article 189 criminalizes extortion including threats to disclose damaging information. If operators or infrastructure trace to Ukraine, Cyber Police may accept complaints regardless of victim nationality.
Is operator journalism a valid defense?
Operators may claim press freedom. Investigative reporting argues the model fails journalistic standards when removal is sold for crypto. Courts and DPAs decide based on evidence — not operator self-description.
Can Google be sued for indexing kompromat?
US Section 230 typically bars such suits against Google as platform. Use Google legal removal processes instead. Outcomes vary by jurisdiction and content type.
What is the difference between blackmail and defamation claims?
Defamation addresses false published statements. Blackmail addresses coercive demands. Pay-to-delete typically involves both: a defamatory article plus a payment demand. See our definition page.
Are cryptocurrency payments traceable for prosecution?
Blockchain transactions are pseudonymous but often traceable by law enforcement with wallet clustering and exchange subpoenas. Preserve wallet addresses and TX hashes when filing IC3 or Europol reports.
Should victims rely on this site instead of a lawyer?
No. This site provides general legal education. Every case differs by jurisdiction, facts, and operator identity. Consult qualified legal counsel for advice on your situation.