We can edit comments, how about direct messages?

[neo_skywalker]

Why even make feedback and suggestion forums?

 

[gene.sis]

moderators can access the original version of a message.

Moderators have no way to access any regular conversations they aren't a part of.
(Content moderation conversations created by the moderation panel can be viewed.)

But what could be in a DM that would cause an accusation, legal dispute and security and liability issues?

Well, basically anything that violates the CoC. (That includes rightout illegal actions.)
E.g. if someone starts a conversation "Do you like cute cat images. See this one," and when you click on the link, you're facing a dick pic.

If content is reported, the chapter, comment, or profile (including the most recent comments) is captured.

Why even make feedback and suggestion forums?

I don't think anyone actually objected to the suggestion as long as it can only be done with unread messages.

 

[Dansak]

You are the one who brought up abuse accusations and liability. Why would you bring that up as an argument if you don't think it would ever be an issue? Are you just trolling? What is it with these forums and people trolling genuine suggestions?

Well that's a first, never been accused of trolling before.

And no, I most certainly was not trolling. There's a huge difference between receiving a shitty message that is hurling abuse, which is a site mod/Friedman issue, and a full on legal dispute and liability issues. I was genuinely not sure what could be said in a private DM that would lead to a legal dispute. Gene.Sis has since cleared that up for me.

And if you look at my original reply, you'll see i was asking a question, simply that if a DM could be edited after being sent, would that leave the editing option open to abuse? It was a fair question, not a full on attack or trolling your idea.

Just because someone disagrees with you, it does not mean they are trolling. I accept you had a genuine suggestion, and that it was well intended. But I have the right to politely disagree or ask questions without being accused of trolling.