2017: Jul 1 – Dec 31

CountryNumber of requestsPercentage of requests where some or all information was producedNumber of sites specified
Argentina10%1
Australia10%1
Austria10%1
Brazil60%11
Canada10%1
Costa Rica10%1
France80%9
Germany50%5
India270%29
Italy40%5
Malta10%1
Moldova20%3
Poland1*100%1
Scotland10%1
Singapore10%1
Spain50%5
Sweden10%1
Switzerland20%2
United Kingdom30%3
United States38*82%43
TOTAL11029%125
*Includes valid emergency requests.

Recent Examples

Here are a few recent examples of requests for user information that we received from government sources. We did not provide information in response to any of these requests.

Austria

  • The Public Prosecutor’s office requested a site owner’s data because their site contained allegedly defamatory content about a judge of a regional court.

Brazil

  • A Police Inspector requested information about a site that was not created by the Authority or with the Authority’s permission, about  “an important Authority of the Brazilian Judicial Branch” that contained “photos, videos, and citations.”

Canada

  • Law enforcement requested information about a user who blogged anonymously and critically about their unpleasant experience with law enforcement while trying to report sexual assault.

France

  • The National Gendarmerie requested information about sites that allegedly defamed an entrepreneur, his business practices, and products.

India

  • Law enforcement requested information about a user who created a “fake blog,” that contained allegedly defamatory content and “vulgar/obscene comments in vernacular language about the complainant.”