[johnklos]

No, it doesn't. Programs need to be designed to rely on specific servers, with specific DNS host names, checking valid TLS certificates. They can just as easily (and trivially, I should add) be designed to allow for configuration with other servers.

If that's not desirable for a product because of the desire to make money, then allowing end user configuration should be something that comes with a fixed date (this product will require our servers for the first five years, then it's open to any servers, for example) or with an update when the company decides to stop running their servers.

Saying it "mandates labor" is inaccurate insofar as requiring that software not be used to facilitate illegal harassment, DoS, distribution of child porn, et cetera isn't considered "mandating labor". It's the cost of doing business, and suggesting that the cost is high is wildly inaccurate.

[brigadier132]

> isn't considered "mandating labor"

It isn't? Who doesn't consider that mandating labor? It literally is mandating labor. Also, why do you use the word facilitate? Obviously that's illegal, what you mean to say is actively preventing the use of for that purpose, which btw is not mandated, companies do it to cover their own ass when they have the resources to.

[dns_snek]

We "mandate labor" all the time, that's how the countless laws & regulations work.

- Providing warranty service is mandated labor.

- Going through workplace safety inspections is mandated labor.

- Getting your product certified by the relevant authorities is mandated labor.

- Following cybersecurity compliance regulations is mandated labor.

- Following proper food safety guidelines in a professional kitchen is mandated labor.

- Ensuring that your premises are accessible to the disabled is mandated labor.

There's nothing special about this case of "mandated labor". You don't get compensated for being "nice enough" not to defraud your customers. That's just your half of the social contract that allows you to participate in society in the first place.