Substack Payment Processor Relinquishes Request for Bank Info From mRNA Scientist
Substack Payment Processor Reverses Decision After Outcry from Prominent Scientist
Renowned scientist Robert Malone faced a dilemma when Stripe, the payment processor for his Substack newsletter boasting 320,000 subscribers, demanded access to his bank’s ”historical transactions” to continue receiving payments.
Malone revealed Stripe’s request, stating they required his current and past financial records within a week or risk losing subscriber payments.
“We are now requesting that you link your bank account, which involves sharing details and activity relating to your bank account with Stripe,”
This intrusive demand raised concerns as Stripe would gain access to all transactions, potentially compromising Malone’s privacy and data.
Alternative Option for Risk Assessment
Stripe clarified that the data request aimed to assess credit risk, crucial for processing $1 trillion in transactions yearly. High-risk signals include disputes, refund rates, and volume fluctuations.
- Stripe continuously reviews accounts based on daily activity.
For individuals flagged for risk assessment, an alternative form requiring minimal personal details is available, bypassing the need for full financial disclosure.
Unveiling Omitted Options
Malone was unaware of this alternative option, as Stripe failed to disclose it initially. The lack of transparency emphasized the need for clearer communication in such matters.
Notable actions by payment processors like Stripe and Paypal, including their handling of the aftermath of the U.S. Capitol incident involving Donald Trump, underscore the significance of transparency and user trust.
Substack, alongside various platforms like X and Locals, utilize Stripe for creator payments, showcasing the impact of payment processors on digital creators.
Malone’s Controversial Statements Spark Online Backlash
In the midst of a stringent federal vaccine mandate, scientist Robert Malone made waves in 2022 during an interview with podcast host Joe Rogan. Malone, a key figure in mRNA technology, raised concerns about the adverse effects of mRNA gene therapies labeled as vaccines—which he helped develop—that he believed were being downplayed by authorities.
Online Censorship Battles
Following Malone’s interview being banned on YouTube and his subsequent removal from Twitter, musician Neil Young even pulled his music from Spotify in protest against Rogan for hosting Malone. This move triggered a domino effect with several major media outlets pressuring Spotify to sever ties with Rogan. Despite the controversy, Rogan’s podcast remains Spotify’s top show, with a massive audience and a recent lucrative contract renewal.
Legal and Ethical Dilemmas Unveiled
Legal actions and investigative journalism later exposed alarming practices where federal entities collaborated with internet platforms to stifle viewpoints challenging official narratives. Revelations included the coordination of content removal and the development of algorithmic tools to prevent the dissemination of dissenting information akin to the Malone incident. These tactics also extend to financial surveillance and the potential blacklisting of individuals engaging in lawful activities like purchasing religious materials and sports gear.
Congressional inquiries further revealed disturbing recommendations to financial institutions to adopt similar surveillance methods. This controversial approach raises significant concerns about the erosion of individuals’ rights and freedoms in the digital age.
Protecting Free Speech
The Viewpoint Diversity Score highlights the alarming trend among major banks to penalize customers for exercising constitutionally protected free speech. Initiatives like the nonprofit Alliance Defending Freedom shed light on the risks of individuals being targeted for their beliefs, underlining the importance of safeguarding fundamental rights in the face of growing corporate censorship.
Bank Account Restrictions: A Concerning Trend
The growing instances of Americans facing account closures due to differing views on government policies raise significant alarms in today’s society. Notable individuals like former Sen. Sam Brownback and even charitable organizations, such as a Tennessee-based charity aiding underprivileged African children, have been affected.
Suppressive Tactics Beyond Borders
Internationally, countries like Canada have infamously utilized debanking as a coercive tactic to stifle freedom of expression, disrupting the foundational principles of constitutional self-governance built on the pillars of free speech and assembly.
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