Development Archives | Page 2 of 531 | Digital Watch Observatory

New China rules broaden 2026 agricultural census and tighten data controls

China has revised its regulation on the national agricultural census ahead of the country’s fourth such survey, with the updated rules due to take effect on 1 May 2026. According to the reported summary, Premier Li Qiang signed a State Council decree publishing the revised regulation.

The changes expand the scope of the agricultural census to include rural industrial development and village construction, alongside more traditional measures of agricultural activity. New data-collection methods, including remote sensing, have also been added to the framework.

Stronger data-quality controls form another part of the revision. The updated regulation introduces a post-census spot-check system and sets out confidentiality obligations for census personnel involved in the process.

Penalties for data falsification have also been tightened. The revised rules say people found to have fabricated or manipulated statistics may face heavier sanctions, including higher fines and possible criminal prosecution.

The fourth national agricultural census aims to provide an updated picture of agricultural development, rural construction, farmers’ living standards, and the outcomes of rural reform in China. Areas listed for coverage include agricultural production conditions, grain output, new quality productive forces in agriculture, rural development, and the living conditions of rural residents.

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FTC accuses OkCupid of sharing user data contrary to privacy promises

The US Federal Trade Commission has taken action against OkCupid and Match Group Americas over allegations that the dating app shared users’ personal information, including photos and location data, with an unrelated third party despite privacy promises saying such sharing would not occur without notice or an opportunity to opt out.

According to the FTC’s complaint, OkCupid gave the third party access to personal data from millions of users even though the recipient was not a service provider, business partner, or affiliate within the company’s corporate family. The agency says consumers were not informed and were not given a chance to opt out.

The complaint says the third party sought large OkCupid datasets because OkCupid’s founders were financial investors in that company, despite there being no business relationship with the app. The FTC alleges that OkCupid provided access to nearly 3 million user photos, along with location and other information, without formal or contractual limits on how the data could be used.

Christopher Mufarrige, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, said: ‘The FTC enforces the privacy promises that companies make. We will investigate, and where appropriate, take action against companies that promise to safeguard your data but fail to follow through—even if that means we have to enforce our Civil Investigative Demands in court.’

The FTC also alleges that, since September 2014, Match and OkCupid have taken extensive steps to conceal and deny that the apps shared users’ personal information with the data recipient, including conduct the agency says obstructed its investigation. One example cited in the complaint is that, after a news report revealed the third party had obtained large OkCupid datasets, the company told the media and users that it was not involved with that third party.

Under the proposed settlement, OkCupid and Match would be permanently prohibited from misrepresenting how they collect, maintain, use, disclose, delete, or protect personal information, including photos, demographic data, and geolocation data. Restrictions would also cover how they describe the purposes of data collection and disclosure, as well as how they present privacy controls and consumer choices under state privacy laws.

The Commission vote authorising staff to file the complaint and stipulating the final order was 2-0. The FTC filed both in the US District Court for the Northern District of Texas, Dallas Division. The agency notes that a complaint reflects its view that it has ‘reason to believe’ the law has been or is about to be violated, while stipulated final orders carry the force of law only if approved and signed by the district court judge.

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UK-backed SPOQC mission launches to test space-based quantum communications

A UK-led research mission aimed at advancing space-based quantum communications has launched aboard a SpaceX Transporter-16 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The Satellite Platform for Optical Quantum Communications, or SPOQC, was developed under the Integrated Quantum Networks (IQN) Hub led by Heriot-Watt University and was launched on 30 March 2026.

The mission builds on research and development carried out first through the Quantum Communications Hub and later through the IQN Hub, both funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council. Five UK research institutions are involved in the collaboration, which is intended to strengthen UK capabilities in space-based quantum communications as governments and researchers prepare for the cybersecurity implications of more powerful quantum computing systems.

SPOQC is now in the final stages of commissioning before it begins transmitting quantum signals to receivers at the Hub Optical Ground Station at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh. The CubeSat is operating in a low Earth, Sun-synchronous orbit and passes over the UK about twice a day, with most measurements expected to take place during night-time passes, when experimental conditions are more favourable.

The mission’s wider policy relevance lies in its connection to the UK’s National Quantum Strategy, which views quantum technologies as important to national resilience, digital infrastructure, and long-term competitiveness. The project presents satellite-based systems as the most practical route towards resilient international quantum communication, since terrestrial fibre links face distance-related limitations that can degrade quantum signals over time.

A distinctive feature of the mission is its dual quantum source payload. One source uses discrete quantum signals at the single-photon level and was developed by the University of Bristol team, while the other uses continuous-variable signals and was developed by researchers at the University of York. Both connect to dedicated receivers at the optical ground station, allowing researchers to compare two established but technically different communication methods under varying atmospheric and orbital conditions.

‘The SPOQC mission is the culmination of outstanding collaborations between leading UK Universities, STFC RAL Space, and external industry partners. It offers a world-first platform to critically compare different quantum communication modalities, including the first use of continuous variable approaches from space. Through the IQN Hub, the SPOQC mission is a vital enabler towards truly global quantum communication via integration into terrestrial UK networks.’, said Professor Gerald Buller, Director of the IQN Hub.

The collaboration brings together the Universities of Bristol, Heriot-Watt, Strathclyde and York, alongside the Science and Technology Facilities Council’s RAL Space. STFC RAL Space contributed engineering, systems integration and mission support, while Heriot-Watt is operating the optical ground station. ISISPACE provided the satellite and technical support.

Researchers say the mission will also test whether quantum technologies can be scaled down to a 12U CubeSat, roughly the size of a microwave oven, as a proof of concept for future compact and lower-cost satellite quantum networks. SPOQC follows the November 2025 launch of SpeQtre, a UK-Singapore collaboration led by STFC RAL Space and SpeQtral, making it the second quantum mission supported by UK research to launch within six months.

Full quantum communication experiments are expected to begin in the second half of 2026 once commissioning is complete. Professor Tim Spiller from the University of York said: ‘As Director of the preceding Quantum Communications Hub, it is very pleasing to see six years of R&D by that Hub team to develop SPOQC and HOGS finally be rewarded with the launch of SPOQC. However, this will add a crucial link to the UK’s expanding quantum networking capability. I look forward to the first quantum demonstrations from SPOQC and HOGS later this year.’

Andy Vick, Disruptive Technology Programme Lead at STFC RAL Space, said: ‘The launch of two quantum CubeSats in close succession highlights the UK’s growing leadership in quantum technology. While both missions share a common satellite platform, SPOQC has united new partners to address new challenges. The RAL Space team is proud to have contributed from the outset, working closely with the Quantum Communications Hub, whose initial work laid strong foundations for the mission, and now supporting its delivery under the leadership of the IQN Hub. SPOQC is a big step for all the teams involved, one that we hope will pave the way for the UK’s national quantum network mission.’

Dr Kedar Pandya, Executive Director of EPSRC’s Strategy Directorate, said: ‘The SPOQC mission is a powerful example of how UK research leadership is shaping the future of secure global communications. By uniting world-class expertise across our quantum research hubs, we’re demonstrating not only scientific excellence but real technological ambition. This launch marks a major step toward quantum-secure networks that will help safeguard the UK’s digital infrastructure for decades to come.’

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UN launches Global Mechanism on ICT security, elects chair for 2026–2027

The United Nations has convened the organisational session of the Global Mechanism on developments in the field of ICTs in the context of international security and advancing responsible state behaviour in the use of ICTs, a new permanent forum established by UN General Assembly resolution 80/16.

The session was opened by Izumi Nakamitsu, Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, who facilitated the election of Ambassador Egriselda López of El Salvador as chair for the 2026–2027 biennium.

During the meeting, the Russian Federation said it would not block the consensus-based appointment of López to ensure the swift launch of the mechanism. However, it expressed ‘deep disquiet’ regarding the pre-election process, stating that the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) had initiated an informal silence procedure on 13 March regarding López’s candidacy without prior discussion with member states. The delegation described the step as ‘unauthorised’ under UN General Assembly resolutions 79/237 and 80/16.

In her remarks following the election, López emphasised that the mechanism should focus on implementation of existing commitments, stating the need to move from agreements to ‘concrete results.’ She underlined that the process remains intergovernmental and should be guided by consensus among member states.

The session adopted its provisional agenda and proceeded with a general exchange of views among delegations.

Several regional groups outlined priorities for the mechanism. Nigeria, speaking on behalf of the African Group, highlighted capacity development as a cross-cutting priority and pointed to cybersecurity threats affecting developing countries, including ransomware and attacks on critical infrastructure.

The Pacific Islands Forum, represented by the Solomon Islands, emphasised the vulnerabilities of Small Island Developing States and called for practical implementation of agreed measures.

The Arab Group and the European Union also stressed the importance of translating existing frameworks into action, with the EU highlighting the need to enhance implementation of the agreed framework for responsible state behaviour in cyberspace.

Across statements, delegations highlighted several common priorities, including:

strengthening capacity development efforts;
addressing ransomware and threats to critical infrastructure;
advancing the application of international law in cyberspace;
ensuring that the mechanism builds on the outcomes of the previous Open-Ended Working Group.

Member states also welcomed the establishment of two dedicated thematic groups, one focusing on substantive issues and another on capacity development, and called for clear mandates and coordination between them.

The Global Mechanism is mandated to advance discussions across five pillars:

threats
norms and principles
the application of international law
confidence-building measures
capacity development.

It will convene annual plenary sessions, thematic group meetings, and a review conference every five years, leading up to the 2030 review.

The organisational session marks the start of the mechanism’s substantive work as a permanent UN forum on ICT security.

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Brazil study maps age assurance practices across 25 digital services

A new study by CGI.br and NIC.br examines how digital services in Brazil implement age assurance measures. Presented in Brasília during an event on the Digital Child and Adolescent Statute (ECA Digital), the study reviewed 25 popular online services used by children and adolescents.

The study found that most of the services analysed do not apply age checks at the point of registration, including some platforms aimed at adults. According to the release, age assurance usually appears later, when users try to access specific features such as livestreaming or monetisation.

Titled ‘Age assurance practices in 25 digital services used by children in Brazil’, the study analysed governance documents published before the ECA Digital entered into force. From 18 March, the law requires information-society services aimed at children and adolescents in Brazil, or likely to be accessed by them, to adopt effective age-assurance measures and parental supervision.

The study found that 11 of the 25 platforms relied on third-party age-assurance services, particularly social media and generative AI platforms. Official identity document submission was the most common verification method, while selfie-based checks were the most common age-estimation tool. Differences were also found between the minimum ages stated by services and those listed in app stores, and some adult-oriented platforms could still be accessed by younger users with parental consent.

Parental supervision tools were available in 15 of the 25 services, but activation was usually optional and depended on parents or guardians. Transparency also emerged as a weakness: only six services published Brazil-specific reports, and only one explained how its minimum-age policy was applied. Policies were often spread across multiple pages, averaging 22 pages per service, and around 40% of the services provided related information in other languages.

Fábio Senne, General Research Coordinator at Cetic.br | NIC.br, said: ‘One of the study’s central aims was to verify the integrity of the information made available by digital services in Brazil. It is essential that data on age protection be communicated clearly and accessibly, allowing more informed and effective parental supervision.’

Juliana Cunha, manager of the Digital Public Policy Advisory Office at CGI.br | NIC.br, said: ‘This survey was developed to support the debate on implementation of the ECA Digital and to offer a clear understanding of the current landscape. This initiative forms part of a broader set of actions by CGI.br and NIC.br aimed at providing technical evidence to support effective enforcement of the law. Our commitment is to foster a safer and more responsible digital ecosystem for children and adolescents in Brazil.’

The release says the study used as a methodological reference the OECD technical paper ‘Age assurance practices of 50 online services used by children’, published in 2025. Information was collected between 10 and 30 January 2026 from public documents made available by the services in Brazil, totalling 550 pages analysed. The event also marked the launch of TIC Kids Online Brazil 2025, a publication on internet use by children and adolescents aged 9 to 17 in Brazil.

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ILO and World Bank paper says GenAI may deepen labour-market divides

A joint working paper by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the World Bank says generative AI is likely to reshape labour markets globally, but not in the same way across countries.

The paper finds that advanced economies face greater overall exposure, while developing economies may see disruption arrive faster than productivity gains due to weaker digital infrastructure and differences in how work is organised.

Prepared as a background study for the World Development Report 2026, the paper examines labour-market exposure to GenAI across 135 countries, covering about two-thirds of global employment. According to the study, digital infrastructure and job-task composition are among the main factors shaping the distribution of risks and opportunities between advanced and developing economies.

Exposure is highest in advanced economies, especially in clerical and professional occupations. Lower-income countries are less exposed overall, but the paper says structural constraints reduce their ability to benefit from the technology. A central concern is that workers in jobs vulnerable to automation are often already online, even in poorer settings, meaning displacement could happen relatively quickly.

The paper also says many of the jobs most exposed to automation in developing economies are relatively higher-quality roles, including clerical and administrative work that has often provided a route into decent employment, especially for women and young workers. AI-driven automation, the study warns, could narrow those pathways.

Potential gains are also uneven. Many workers in jobs that could benefit from GenAI lack reliable internet access in lower-income settings. The paper adds that the same occupation title can involve different tasks depending on the country, with workers in poorer economies often carrying out fewer non-routine analytical tasks, relying less on computers, and doing more routine or manual work. Such differences reduce the scope for productivity gains from GenAI deployment.

ILO and the World Bank conclude in the paper that GenAI’s labour-market effects will depend not only on the technology itself, but also on digital connectivity, skills, task organisation, labour-market institutions, and social protection. Expanded digital access, stronger skills policies, and better labour protections are presented as necessary if the gains from GenAI are to be shared more broadly.

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South Korea sets ambition to become AI leader

South Korea has unveiled a national strategy to become one of the world’s top three AI powers by 2028. The plan combines investment in digital infrastructure, data systems and next-generation connectivity.

Authorities aim to expand networks by advancing 5G capabilities and preparing for the commercial deployment of 6G by 2030. Cybersecurity and data integration are also key priorities to support a stronger digital ecosystem.

The strategy includes developing talent across education levels and investing in core technologies such as semiconductors and quantum computing. AI adoption is expected to expand across sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare and agriculture.

The South Korean officials also plan to promote digital inclusion through learning centres and assistive technologies. Coordination between ministries will be strengthened to ensure effective delivery of the long-term roadmap.

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Microsoft expands cloud footprint in Denmark

Microsoft has opened a new data centre region in Denmark, marking a major investment in cloud infrastructure and digital resilience. The Denmark East region spans multiple sites and aims to support secure, local data processing.

The project is expected to boost economic activity, with billions of dollars in projected spending and strong spillover effects for local technology firms. Organisations adopting cloud services are likely to rely on domestic partners across IT, cybersecurity, and software development.

Businesses and public sector users will gain access to advanced cloud and AI tools, alongside improved data sovereignty under the EU rules. Local data storage and low-latency services are designed to strengthen compliance and operational efficiency.

Sustainability also plays a central role, with renewable energy use, zero-water-cooling systems, and waste-heat recovery supporting local Danish communities. Broader ambitions include reinforcing digital sovereignty while enabling innovation across industries.

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Campaign highlights risks of profit-driven digital platforms

A global campaign led by the Norwegian Consumer Council (NCC) has drawn attention to the decline in quality across digital platforms, a phenomenon widely referred to as ‘enshitification’, in which services deteriorate over time as companies prioritise monetisation over user experience.

The initiative has gained momentum through a viral video and coordinated advocacy efforts across multiple regions.

Inshitification is a term coined by journalist Cory Doctorow that describes a pattern in which platforms initially serve users well, then shift towards extracting value from both users and business partners.

In practice, it often results in increased advertising, paywalls, and reduced functionality, with platforms leveraging user dependence to introduce less favourable conditions.

More than 70 advocacy groups across the EU, the US and Norway have urged policymakers to take stronger action, arguing that declining competition and market concentration allow platforms to degrade services without losing users.

Network effects and high switching costs further limit consumer choice, making it difficult to move to alternative platforms even when dissatisfaction grows.

Existing frameworks, such as the Digital Markets Act and the Digital Services Act, aim to address some of these issues by promoting interoperability, transparency, and accountability.

However, experts argue that enforcement remains too slow and insufficient to deter harmful practices, suggesting that stronger regulatory intervention will be necessary to restore balance between consumers, platforms, and competition in the digital economy.

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EU investigates cyber attack targeting Commission websites

The European Commission has confirmed a cyber-attack targeting its cloud infrastructure hosting the Europa.eu services, with authorities acting swiftly to contain the incident and prevent disruption to public access.

The attack was identified on 24 March, prompting immediate mitigation measures to secure systems and maintain service continuity.

Preliminary findings indicate that some data may have been accessed from affected websites, although the full scope of the incident remains under investigation.

The Commission has begun notifying the relevant EU entities that may be affected, while continuing efforts to assess the extent of the breach and strengthen safeguards.

Officials confirmed that internal systems were not affected, limiting the overall impact of the attack.

Monitoring efforts remain ongoing, with additional security measures being implemented to protect data and infrastructure, rather than relying solely on existing defences. The Commission has also committed to analysing the incident to improve its cybersecurity capabilities.

The attack comes amid growing cyber and hybrid threats targeting European institutions and critical services.

Existing frameworks, including the NIS2 Directive and the Cyber Solidarity Act, aim to strengthen resilience and coordination across member states, supporting a more unified response to large-scale cyber incidents across the EU.

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