When One Gatekeeper Controls Everything: The Problem of Cascading Dependencies

A single account suspension can cut off income, customer records, and the means to appeal. Herbert R. Sim examines how services that appear independent can share a single point of failure, extending one gatekeeper’s authority across unrelated activities. The essay argues for proportionate restrictions and practical safeguards, including independent appeal channels, usable backups, data portability, and separation of critical functions. Its test is whether people can recover, switch providers, or continue working when one service fails.