Cybersecurity Archives | Page 293 of 369 | Digital Watch Observatory

TikTok’s request to temporarily halt the US ban rejected by US court

TikTok’s deadline is approaching as its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, prepares to take its case to the US Supreme Court. A federal appeals court on Friday rejected TikTok’s request for more time to challenge a law mandating ByteDance to divest TikTok’s US operations by 19 January or face a nationwide ban. The platform, used by 170 million Americans, now has weeks to seek intervention from the Supreme Court to avoid a shutdown that would reshape the digital landscape.

The US government argues that ByteDance’s control over TikTok poses a persistent national security threat, claiming the app’s ties to China could expose American data to misuse. TikTok strongly disputes these assertions, stating that user data and content recommendation systems are stored on US-based Oracle servers and that moderation decisions are made domestically. A TikTok spokesperson emphasised the platform’s intention to fight for free speech, pointing to the Supreme Court’s history of defending such rights.

The ruling leaves TikTok’s immediate fate uncertain, placing the decision first in the hands of President Joe Biden, who could grant a 90-day extension if progress toward a divestiture is evident. However, Biden’s decision would give way to President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office just one day after the 19 January deadline. Despite his previous efforts to ban TikTok in 2020, Trump recently opposed the current law, citing concerns about its benefits to rival platforms like Facebook.

Adding to the urgency, US lawmakers have called on Apple and Google to prepare to remove TikTok from their app stores if ByteDance fails to comply. As the clock ticks, TikTok’s battle with the US government highlights a broader conflict over technology, data privacy, and national security. The legal outcome could force millions of users and businesses to rethink their digital strategies in a post-TikTok world.

Krispy Kreme hit by IT disruption affecting US online orders

Krispy Kreme has reported a cybersecurity incident that disrupted online ordering systems across the United States. The doughnut chain discovered the unauthorised activity on 29 November and immediately launched an investigation with external cybersecurity experts.

While the company’s stores remain open for in-person orders, it warned that revenue losses from digital sales could materially impact its financial results. Shares of Krispy Kreme fell by around 2% in premarket trading following the announcement.

The company said it is actively working to mitigate the effects of the incident while maintaining operations at its global locations.

Serie A takes action against piracy with Meta

Serie A has partnered with Meta to combat illegal live streaming of football matches, aiming to protect its broadcasting rights. Under the agreement, Serie A will gain access to Meta’s tools for real-time detection and swift removal of unauthorised streams on Facebook and Instagram.

Broadcasting revenue remains vital for Serie A clubs, including Inter Milan and Juventus, with €4.5 billion secured through deals with DAZN and Sky until 2029. The league’s CEO urged other platforms to follow Meta’s lead in fighting piracy.

Italian authorities have ramped up anti-piracy measures, passing laws that enable swift takedowns of illegal streams. Earlier this month, police dismantled a network with 22 million users, highlighting the scale of the issue.

Experts at the IGF address the growing threat of misinformation in the digital age

In an Internet Governance Forum panel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, titled ‘Navigating the misinformation maze: Strategic cooperation for a trusted digital future’, moderated by Italian journalist Barbara Carfagna, experts from diverse sectors examined the escalating problem of misinformation and explored solutions for the digital era. Esam Alwagait, Director of the Saudi Data and AI Authority’s National Information Center, identified social media as the primary driver of false information, with algorithms amplifying sensational content.

Natalia Gherman of the UN Counter-Terrorism Committee noted the danger of unmoderated online spaces, while Mohammed Ali Al-Qaed of Bahrain’s Information and Government Authority emphasised the role of influencers in spreading false narratives. Khaled Mansour, a Meta Oversight Board member, pointed out that misinformation can be deadly, stating, ‘Misinformation kills. By spreading misinformation in conflict times from Myanmar to Sudan to Syria, this can be murderous.’

Emerging technologies like AI were highlighted as both culprits and potential solutions. Alwagait and Al-Qaed discussed how AI-driven tools could detect manipulated media and analyse linguistic patterns, while Al-Qaed proposed ‘verify-by-design’ mechanisms to tag information at its source.

However, the panel warned of AI’s ability to generate convincing fake content, fueling an arms race between creators of misinformation and its detectors. Pearse O’Donohue of the European Commission’s DigiConnect Directorate praised the EU’s Digital Services Act as a regulatory model but questioned, ‘Who moderates the regulator?’ Meanwhile, Mansour cautioned against overreach, advocating for labelling content rather than outright removal to preserve freedom of expression.

Deemah Al-Yahya, Secretary General of the Digital Cooperation Organization, emphasised the importance of global collaboration, supported by Gherman, who called for unified strategies through international forums like the Internet Governance Forum. Al-Qaed suggested regional cooperation could strengthen smaller nations’ influence over tech platforms. The panel also stressed promoting credible information and digital literacy to empower users, with Mansour noting that fostering ‘good information’ is essential to counter misinformation at its root.

The discussion concluded with a consensus on the need for balanced, innovative solutions. Speakers called for collaborative regulatory approaches, advanced fact-checking tools, and initiatives that protect freedom of expression while tackling misinformation’s far-reaching consequences.

All transcripts from the Internet Governance Forum sessions can be found on dig.watch.

Saudi Arabia hosts 19th annual Internet Governance Forum in Riyadh

The 19th annual Internet Governance Forum (IGF) officially began today in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, bringing together global leaders, policymakers, innovators, and civil society under the theme ‘Building our multistakeholder digital future.’ Held from 15 to 19 December 2024, this most relevant international event serves as a platform for open dialogue on pressing issues surrounding the digital space.

The IGF 2024 kicks off with a focus on four key themes that reflect the growing complexities and opportunities of the digital age. First, ‘Harnessing innovation and balancing risks in the digital space’ explores ways to maximise the benefits of rapid digital transformation while tackling its associated risks. Through shared success stories and best practices, stakeholders aim to create a safer, more innovative digital landscape for all.

The second theme, ‘Enhancing the digital contribution to peace, development, and sustainability,’ positions digitalisation as a catalyst for socioeconomic change. Participants discuss how technology can drive sustainable development and improve the lives of both current and future generations, particularly in underserved regions.

Advancing inclusion remains a critical issue, so the third theme, ‘Advancing human rights and inclusion in the digital age,’ spotlights initiatives that ensure universal, meaningful connectivity while safeguarding digital rights. Discussions centre on bridging the digital divide, addressing inequalities, and fostering innovation that aligns with human rights principles.

Finally, the forum dedicates significant attention to ‘Improving digital governance for the Internet We Want.’ As global stakeholders continue to debate the future of Internet governance, this theme prioritises transparency, openness, and inclusive, bottom-up approaches to building a digital ecosystem that works for everyone.

The conference adopts a hybrid format, offering in-person participation in Riyadh alongside virtual attendance for delegates worldwide. With registration officially open, thousands of stakeholders from across governments, businesses, academia, and civil society are expected to engage in discussions and collaborative efforts to shape a resilient, inclusive, and innovative digital future.

For those unable to attend in person, Diplo is providing comprehensive coverage of the main sessions of IGF 2024. All updates, reports, and analyses can be followed live on the Digital Watch Observatory (dig.watch). In addition, Diplo has introduced chatbots for each event, allowing participants and online viewers to ask questions about specific sessions and get real-time insights on key discussions, topics, and outcomes.

With IGF 2024 underway, Riyadh has become the epicentre of global discussions on digital transformation, governance, and innovation. Through real-time reporting and interactive tools, Diplo ensures that audiences worldwide remain connected and informed, shaping a truly inclusive and multistakeholder digital future. With an eye toward global digital transformation, the forum sets the stage for shaping policies and solutions that will define the next chapter of our shared digital future.

Chipmaker Nvidia reaffirms commitment to China

Nvidia has refuted social media claims suggesting it plans to limit chip supplies to China, categorically stating that these rumours are false. In a post on a popular Chinese platform, the company reaffirmed its dedication to providing top-quality products and services to Chinese customers, highlighting the importance of the region to its business.

The denial comes at a time of heightened scrutiny over global semiconductor trade, with geopolitical tensions influencing market dynamics. Nvidia’s statement emphasises its continued focus on meeting the needs of its Chinese clientele, despite speculation circulating online.

This clarification is expected to reassure stakeholders in one of Nvidia’s most significant markets, where demand for advanced chips continues to grow, particularly in artificial intelligence and high-performance computing sectors. The company’s swift dismissal of the claims underscores its commitment to maintaining strong ties with China.

Russian police arrest 300 in major crypto scam bust

Russian authorities have arrested over 300 individuals in Moscow during a major crackdown on an alleged international cryptocurrency scam ring. The Ministry of Internal Affairs revealed that the group operated several fraudulent call centres, using around 500 workstations to target victims in over 20 countries. The suspects reportedly persuaded individuals to invest in fake cryptocurrency platforms before disappearing with their funds.

Investigators believe the ring was tied to a broader international network led by Yegor Burkin, a fugitive associated with the Khimprom organised crime group, also known for drug smuggling activities. Police claimed that some stolen funds may have been used to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces, adding a geopolitical angle to the case.

Officials highlighted the increasing sophistication of crypto scams, with fraudsters using spoofed phone numbers, fake documents, and professional terminology to appear legitimate. The Ministry warned that such scams are on the rise, with many targeting foreign nationals and employing multilingual staff to reach victims worldwide.

AI driving solutions backed by Hyundai and Samsung

Canadian startup Tenstorrent and South Korea’s BOS Semiconductors unveiled advanced AI chips designed for infotainment and autonomous driving systems. Growing demand for high-performance chips aligns with vehicles increasingly functioning as ‘computers on wheels’.

The AI chips are the first in the industry to feature ‘automotive chiplet AI accelerator’ technology, enabling modular customisation. Chiplets function like LEGO blocks, allowing manufacturers to tailor systems while cutting costs. BOS plans to debut its ‘Eagle-N’ chips at the Consumer Electronics Show in January, with production targeted for late 2026.

BOS Semiconductors is negotiating supply agreements with German automakers and aims to challenge established players like Qualcomm. The chips will utilise Samsung’s 5nm manufacturing process, showcasing advancements in efficiency and performance.

Tenstorrent, led by former Apple and Tesla chip designer Jim Keller, has secured backing from Hyundai Motor Group, Samsung, and Jeff Bezos’ family office. BOS founder Park Jae-hong, formerly of Samsung Electronics, emphasised the potential of this innovative technology to transform the automotive industry.

United Nations takes steps to safeguard submarine cables

The United Nations has established a dedicated body to safeguard submarine cables, which transmit over 99% of global data, including emails, video streams, and government communications. The initiative aims to address the vulnerability of this critical infrastructure to natural disasters, accidents, and suspected acts of sabotage. Around 200 cable failures are reported annually, with incidents such as a 2022 tsunami cutting off the Pacific island of Tonga for a month.

The new body, comprising 40 experts from public and private sectors, will focus on ensuring cables are built and maintained with greater resilience. While its mandate does not extend to investigating potential sabotage, it seeks to expedite repairs and minimise disruptions. ITU Deputy Secretary-General Tomas Lamanauskas emphasised the importance of this effort, citing the impact cable failures have on economies and societies worldwide.

As cable disruptions become increasingly common, experts believe the UN’s efforts will help stabilise a crucial global network. A follow-up summit in Nigeria is planned for February, continuing discussions on enhancing undersea cable resilience and safeguarding international data flow.

Texas launches investigation into tech platforms over child safety

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated investigations into more than a dozen technology platforms over concerns about their privacy and safety practices for minors. The platforms under scrutiny include Character.AI, a startup specialising in AI chatbots, along with social media giants like Instagram, Reddit, and Discord.

The investigations aim to determine compliance with two key Texas laws designed to protect children online. The Securing Children Online through Parental Empowerment (SCOPE) Act prohibits digital service providers from sharing or selling minors’ personal information without parental consent and mandates privacy tools for parents. The Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA) requires companies to obtain clear consent before collecting or using data from minors.

Concerns over the impact of social media on children have grown significantly. A Harvard study found that major platforms earned an estimated $11 billion in advertising revenue from users under 18 in 2022. Experts, including US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, have highlighted risks such as poor sleep, body image issues, and low self-esteem among young users, particularly adolescent girls.

Paxton emphasised the importance of enforcing the state’s robust data privacy laws, putting tech companies on notice. While some platforms have introduced tools to enhance teen safety and parental controls, they have not yet commented on the ongoing probes.