Meta may launch Paid Facebook and Instagram in Europe

Meta is contemplating the introduction of a paid subscription service for Facebook and Instagram in Europe, as per a report in The New York Times. This move is aimed at addressing European Union (EU) concerns regarding data privacy and advertising. However, there are currently no details available regarding the subscription price, release date, or even whether the product will ultimately be launched.

Meta has been engaged in disputes with the EU and other European regulatory bodies over alleged privacy infringements related to its ad-tracking services and data transfers. Ireland's Data Protection Commission previously imposed a $1.3 billion fine on Meta for the improper transfer of European user data to the United States, violating GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation). In July, the US and the EU signed a data transfer agreement, relaxing restrictions on social media platforms.

Meta has already begun offering an option to opt out of targeted advertising in the EU, and there have been reports suggesting it might further explore the possibility of making this an opt-in choice for all users in the region.

Additionally, Meta has postponed the release of its new social platform, Threads, in Europe due to concerns related to regulations. The company appears to be apprehensive about the upcoming Digital Markets Act, which restricts companies from reusing personal user data, including information like names and locations.

AT&T Resets Millions of Customer Passcodes After Data Leak: What You Need to Know

AT&T recently confirmed a significant data breach affecting over 7.6 million current customers and 65 million former customers. The leaked information, which dates back to 2019 or earlier, includes personal details like names, addresses, phone numbers, and social security numbers. Fortunately, financial information and call history were not compromised. In response to the breach, AT&T has reset passcodes for affected customers. Passcodes, usually four-digit numbers, serve as an additional layer of security when accessing accounts. However, security experts warn that the encrypted passcodes leaked alongside customer information could be easily deciphered, posing a risk of unauthorized account access. Affected customers are advised to set up free fraud alerts with major credit bureaus and remain vigilant for any suspicious activity related to their accounts. AT&T is proactively reaching out to impacted customers via email or letter to inform them about the breach and the meas...

Signal Introduces Usernames for Encrypted Messaging: A Secure Way to Connect

Signal, the encrypted messaging service, is launching a new feature in the coming weeks: support for usernames. This beta feature allows users to establish unique usernames, enabling connections without divulging phone numbers. source: Signal Blog To create a username, navigate to your settings and select "Profile." Once you've chosen a unique username, generate a QR code or link to share with others. Recipients can connect by entering your username into the chat bar. Usernames can be changed at any time, though previous usernames may be claimed by others. Signal began testing usernames last fall. Unlike social media platforms, Signal usernames do not serve as logins or public handles. They offer a discreet means of communication without revealing personal phone numbers. While a phone number is required to register for Signal, sharing it is optional. Usernames remain private and do not appear on profiles or in chats unless shared explicitly. As Randall Sarafa, Signal'...

Wordpress.com is selling user data to AI companies

In September 2023, WordPress.com quietly updated a developer page about accessing a "Firehose" of around a million daily WordPress posts, clarifying that these feeds are intended for search engines, AI products, and market intelligence providers. This change, which was not previously noted, has sparked discussion, especially after revelations that Automattic, the owner of WordPress.com and Tumblr, plans to share user data with OpenAI and Midjourney. The recent buzz surrounds questions about which WordPress blogs are included, data retroactivity for opt-outs, and the lack of transparency from Automattic. This company has been selling access to post data for years, including through the Jetpack plugin, but has recently announced exclusions for select AI partners. Automattic's deals with OpenAI and Midjourney are particularly contentious as they aim to enhance generative AI tools. This data sharing, facilitated by partners like SocialGist and DataStreamer, offers insights in...

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