TechCrunch Spreads Rumors About Last.fm, Offers No Retraction
Techcrunch blog post. So far, TechCrunch has not issued a retraction or any evidence of Last.fm wrongdoing. Instead, the site seems to be hiding behind the “we were just reporting a rumor” defense, combined with the “Last.FM isn’t answering our questions quickly enough and in exactly the way we want them to” defense.
Here’s perhaps the most direct accusation from the TechCrunch post: “And Last.fm, which is owned by CBS, actually handed the data over to the RIAA.” Despite the touchy nature of their accusations, TechCrunch seems to be relying on a single “tip”, and offers no corroboration.
At this point, both Last.fm and the RIAA have publicly denied this ever happened, and no one has produced any evidence disputing that. Note to TechCrunch — it isn’t Last.fm’s job to prove this story is false — it’s your job to prove it’s true. Or offer a speedy retraction and an apology. I doubt anyone is holding their breath.
