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.

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'

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

Safeguarding Internet Privacy: Supreme Court of Canada Upholds Protection of IP Addresses

In a recent ruling, the Supreme Court of Canada affirmed the significance of privacy rights concerning internet addresses. The court declared that police cannot simply obtain a suspect’s IP address without a court order, emphasizing the expectation of privacy that Canadian residents hold for such information. The court's decision stemmed from a case in 2017 involving Calgary police investigating fraudulent online activities at a liquor store. Initially, police demanded IP addresses from a credit card processor, which eventually led to obtaining subscriber information from Telus. This information was pivotal in making arrests and securing convictions in multiple offenses. Despite previous convictions, the accused contested the legality of obtaining IP addresses without proper authorization. The Supreme Court, in a 5-4 decision, asserted that IP addresses carry a reasonable expectation of privacy, necessitating judicial approval before access. The ruling emphasizes that obtaining jud

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