Hello Bogdan,

That you for the insight. I know there are a few 'other' businesses that do use this method being described (for example: Linked In) and they are doing the same as you; looking at the patent.

There is a discussion going on in a blogging group about this very subject. And some are looking into the laws at how patents can affect previous concepts that were not patented before. This is a big question and at least all people should be aware.

There have been cases where patents were recieved on something and even though it was in practice/use before the patent the patent owner became controller and either asked for royalties from those in earlier practices, took over the practicing entity or sued and shut them down.

A bigger question floating among those blogging is will Friendsters take over and become a monopoly in the social networking arena. Sounds like something Google would do.

Thank you for your time on this.

Kenneth R Sword Jr

Kenneth,

Thanks for post.
Have to confess, I haven't read the complete context of the Patent,
but i feel confident those who want to social network will, in spite of barriers.

Someone always comes up with a better mousetrap.

The thing that is a real concern to the Networker, who is earning an Income, in the US is the FTC proposed regulation we have discussed previously.

Here again is excerpt from MLM Watchdog.

It si strange how few of the several 100's of Thousands Networks have responded.

ONLY 5 DAYS to GO

Here are links etc. from MLM Watchdog

Thanks for the info That is need to know information for all of us on the internet. If the gov. and selfish people like this keep getting their way we will have to sign to by food .and post the ticket in the News Paper. I hope it stops soon and they let us do our thing and leave us alone

                              KATIE

Hi, Kenneth:

Thanks for the invitation. This is a great post, but I dont think this is aimed at the users, but instead, at the ISPs and the techniques and services that they provide when allowing us to connect to one another. 

I've been online chatting for over 10 years now and I really cant see anyone trying to control people from talking, exchanging ideas, or anything else. So, I think networking is safe.

My fear is that ISPs may have to pay the patent holder some sort of fee for using this process and that THAT cost will get passed down to us, resulting in higher monthly charges for using the internet.

This is definitely something to keep an eye on. Thanks, again, for the "heads up".

Miracles & Blessings,

Robin

hi,

i'm not sure i understand all this. they can, i'm sure, patent their own site, but how can you patent what hasn't been said yet? am i missing something here?

nan