AP News reports that Denmark’s government has announced plans to ban social media access for anyone under 15, aiming to protect children from harmful online content and commercial interests. This move, which would be among the most restrictive in the EU, would allow some parents to grant access from age 13 after a specific assessment, but enforcement methods remain unclear. Minister for Digital Affairs Caroline Stage cited the high percentage of young children with social media profiles and the risks they face as driving forces behind the legislation. Denmark’s government plans to introduce an age-verification app, allowing them to ensure tech platforms comply with age restrictions, or face potential fines.
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On Thursday, the K.P. Sharma Oli government banned 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube, due to their failure to register in Nepal by the imposed deadline. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology instructed the Nepal Telecommunication Authority to make the unregistered sites inactive after repeated requests and a final seven-day ultimatum. Critics, such as the Center for Media Research, condemn the ban as detrimental to Nepal’s democratic image, arguing that the government’s stringent oversight conditions likely deterred platform registration. This action follows a Supreme Court ruling mandating platform registration, with the government facing prior criticism for attempts to control online activity and previous bans on platforms like TikTok.
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Following a fatal stabbing at a French middle school, President Macron announced that France may ban social media access for children under 15 unless the EU acts first. This decision, echoing similar actions in Australia, cites a rising youth violence problem potentially linked to unsupervised online platforms. Macron urged tech companies to implement age verification, highlighting the need for stricter regulations to protect children. A potential French ban would impose significant restrictions on access to major social media platforms.
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Following pressure from French Digital Minister Clara Chappaz and the EU, TikTok removed the pro-eating disorder hashtag #SkinnyTok and replaced it with a link to mental health resources. This action, part of an ongoing review of TikTok’s safety measures, follows concerns raised by regulators regarding the platform’s algorithm and its impact on children’s mental wellbeing. The EU’s investigation into TikTok’s algorithms under the Digital Services Act continues, highlighting the growing focus on online child safety. This incident underscores the ongoing debate surrounding social media’s effect on young users and the need for stricter content moderation. Prior efforts to mitigate these risks include TikTok’s 2024 suspension of its screen-time reward program.
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Putin’s chaos agents are actively invading Poland’s infosphere, mirroring similar campaigns in other nations. This isn’t a new tactic; Russia’s disinformation machine has proven effective in undermining democracies worldwide, and Poland is now squarely in its sights. The scale and sophistication of this operation demand a robust response.
The methods employed are subtle and insidious. Pro-Russian accounts on platforms like TikTok are spreading narratives that paint the EU as an oppressive force, trying to fracture the alliance and sow discord within member states. These campaigns often target upcoming elections, as seen in Romania, where pro-Putin messaging is attempting to influence the presidential race, even exploiting the banning of certain candidates to push alternative narratives.… Continue reading
The European Union is gearing up to impose significant penalties on Elon Musk’s X, formerly known as Twitter, for alleged violations of a crucial law designed to combat the spread of illicit content and disinformation. The potential fine is staggering, possibly exceeding a billion dollars, a sum intended to send a powerful message about the seriousness of these alleged infractions. This isn’t just about money; it’s about setting a precedent and demonstrating that the EU won’t tolerate blatant disregard for its regulations.
The sheer scale of the potential fine highlights the EU’s determination to address the issues at hand. Many believe a hefty penalty is necessary, not just as punishment, but as a deterrent for other social media platforms.… Continue reading
Papua New Guinea’s government temporarily shut down Facebook, citing concerns about hate speech, misinformation, and other harmful content. This action, undertaken under the country’s anti-terrorism laws, has been met with strong opposition from MPs and media leaders who label it an abuse of human rights and a move towards authoritarianism. While the government claims the ban is a test to promote responsible social media use, the lack of prior warning and the platform’s crucial role in public discourse have fueled widespread criticism. The ban affects approximately 1.3 million Facebook users in the country.
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A French investigation into X (formerly Twitter) has been launched following a report alleging algorithm manipulation to skew online discourse. The Paris prosecutor’s office is examining claims of biased algorithms potentially distorting data processing, prompting initial technical checks. This action follows broader concerns regarding X’s content moderation practices since Elon Musk’s acquisition. The investigation coincides with a separate European Union inquiry into potential Digital Services Act violations, fueled by accusations of preferential treatment for far-right content. These investigations highlight growing scrutiny of X’s algorithmic practices and their potential impact on political discourse.
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Brazil’s recent clash with Elon Musk highlights a growing global concern about unchecked corporate power and the weaponization of social media. The Brazilian Supreme Court’s decision to enforce its laws against Musk, regardless of his wealth and influence, sent a clear message: no one is above the law. This decisive action wasn’t a result of political maneuvering; it stemmed from an independent judiciary upholding its jurisdiction. The notion of Lula sharing “notes” with Europe is misleading; the situation demonstrates a robust judicial system acting independently of the executive branch.
The Brazilian response involved strategically targeting Musk’s financial interests. By severely restricting the sales of Tesla vehicles and Starlink services, Brazil effectively hit Musk where it hurts most – his bottom line.… Continue reading
France and Germany, along with several other European nations, are pushing the EU Commission to take decisive action against foreign interference in European elections. This urgent call highlights a growing concern that external actors are actively manipulating information and attempting to sway electoral outcomes across the continent.
The core of the problem lies in the unchecked power of social media platforms. The suggestion to ban platforms like Twitter and Facebook outright mirrors similar calls for action against TikTok in the United States. This drastic measure, while controversial, underscores the perceived inability of these platforms to effectively regulate the spread of disinformation and propaganda.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood