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Show HN: Client not paid? Add opacity to the body

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Re: Show HN: Client not paid? Add opacity to the body

#5
post #3

Is it legal to build self-destruct systems into contracted work? I'd be super wary of adding this...

It is illegal. If you already gave up your work and the client still needs to pay better be polite or in the end call a lawyer. Everything harmful to the client that you do is illegal including public shaming, destroying your work, etc.

Re: Show HN: Client not paid? Add opacity to the body

#7
post #5
post #3

Is it legal to build self-destruct systems into contracted work? I'd be super wary of adding this...

It is illegal. If you already gave up your work and the client still needs to pay better be polite or in the end call a lawyer. Everything harmful to the client that you do is illegal including public shaming, destroying your work, etc.

Nope, public shaming is 100% legal and protected speech. In specific cases it may be a contract breach, but that does not make it illegal. The largest direct problem with this stuff can be a tiny hit to your reputation.

That said, they may sue or counter sue you, which is often a dumb move but by not paying you that have demonstrated sketchy behavior.

Re: Show HN: Client not paid? Add opacity to the body

#8
post #3

Is it legal to build self-destruct systems into contracted work? I'd be super wary of adding this...

Put a clause into the contract which says that you own all copyrights, IP, etc. until such time as payment has cleared.

It is perfectly legal for you to mangle your own web site. Even if it's a site you made at someone else's request.

If they haven't paid, they don't own it, and they have no right to complain.

Re: Show HN: Client not paid? Add opacity to the body

#9
post #3

Is it legal to build self-destruct systems into contracted work? I'd be super wary of adding this...

Is it legal to use your content without full payment? Review your contract with your attorney to ensure copyright only transfers upon full payment. (EDIT: And fix this for future contracts if for some silly reason it doesn't.)

Non-destructive trial/preview limitations of the content for unlicensed users sounds pretty legal. This isn't even obfuscated, as most DRM/License schemes will be.

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