Apple shuts down rumours website

Apple shuts down rumours website

news.bbc.co.uk

Apple has settled a legal row with tip site Think Secret that will see the website shut down.
The legal battle between Apple and the site blew up in January 2005 when Think Secret revealed details of the Mac Mini before its official unveiling.

Apple brought the lawsuit to make the fan site reveal who had leaked details about the cut-down computer.

By agreeing to shut down, the Think Secret site gets to preserve the anonymity of its sources.

(visit the link for the full news article)

what does this mean for websites and forums?
if you dont bend to the power of the big boys you are going down and have no chance in hell to stay upright?

Is apple just the first step from other companies to take action against sites they see as breaches in their privicy and so on?

news.bbc.co.uk
(visit the link for the full news article)

It seems that it was Apple who paid off the owner of that website to have it shut down:

Apple, Think Secret Settlement Is a Mistake

Chalk one up for Apple's lawyers. These savvy individuals have managed to use Apple's deep pockets to pay off one of the greatest Web sites for Apple rumors and information, Think Secret. As of today, Think Secret has officially closed its doors.

The story is actually far more complex than is reported on the BBC. More info:
Think Secret Shuts Down After Settlement With Apple: Author "Pleased"
Apple Kills Think Secret: Publisher Nick Ciarelli Talks

Tip: It's better to find out the details about tech-related news on tech-related websites. The links above are to Wired and PC World.