Can several people operate one website?¶
Yes. A website may involve several people performing different operational roles.
A business owner may direct the operation, a developer may manage technical systems, staff may publish content, an accountant may control payments and another person may handle customer enquiries.
Attribute each role¶
Ask who:
- controlled the domain;
- accessed the host or platform;
- uploaded or changed content;
- created user accounts;
- received payments;
- dealt with customers; and
- made the relevant decision.
Provider records may show permissions, access history and administrator actions. Communications may show instructions and division of responsibility. Device evidence may identify who actually used an account.
Shared accounts and shared devices complicate attribution. A login identifies account use, not automatically the individual user.
Key takeaway
Attribute the specific action and responsibility to the relevant person rather than assuming one individual controlled the entire website.