privacy

UK court dismisses privacy lawsuit against Google

Google has successfully defended itself against a revived privacy lawsuit in the UK concerning the transfer of patient data from the Royal Free London NHS Trust. The legal case, brought by patient Andrew Prismall on behalf of 1.6 million individuals, alleged that the data shared with Google’s AI division, DeepMind Technologies, was misused.

The Royal Free NHS Trust had transferred the data in 2015 to assist in developing an AI app designed to detect kidney injuries. Although Britain’s Information Commissioner’s Office ruled in 2017 that the data-sharing arrangement violated privacy laws, a subsequent lawsuit against Google and DeepMind was dismissed last year due to insufficient grounds.

On Wednesday, the Court of Appeal upheld this dismissal, rejecting Prismall’s attempt to challenge the earlier ruling. Google has not commented on the outcome, which closes a high-profile chapter in the debate over privacy and technology’s role in healthcare.

Pavel Durov faces Paris court over Telegram allegations

Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, appeared in a Paris court on 6 December to address allegations that the messaging app has facilitated criminal activity. Represented by his lawyers, Durov reportedly stated he trusted the French justice system but declined to comment further on the case.

The legal proceedings stem from charges brought against Durov in August, accusing him of running a platform that enables illicit transactions. Following his arrest at Le Bourget airport, he posted a $6 million bail and has been barred from leaving France until March 2025. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of 500,000 euros.

Industry experts fear the case against Durov reflects a broader crackdown on privacy-preserving technologies in the Web3 space. Parallels have been drawn with the arrest of Tornado Cash developer Alexey Pertsev, raising concerns over government overreach and the implications for digital privacy.

New report tracks digital Euro development

The European Central Bank (ECB) has released its second progress report on the development of the digital euro, marking the halfway point of the preparatory phase. The report addresses key issues such as holding limits for the central bank digital currency (CBDC) and the harmonisation of laws to ensure universal standards. The Rulebook Development Group is leading efforts with seven workstreams involving market participants and central banks.

User preferences on holding limits are being studied, with a potential solution being a ‘reverse waterfall’ system that transfers excess digital euros to fiat in linked accounts. Offline transaction solutions are also under consideration, although specific details remain limited. Meanwhile, discussions continue over competition between European and non-European financial service providers, as well as the development of technical services such as wallets.

The ECB aims to improve user experience, offering cash-like privacy for those prioritising discretion. ECB executive board member Piero Cipollone previously assured that the digital euro would provide greater privacy than current commercial options. A final decision on the digital euro’s launch is expected in October 2025, with the next progress report due in mid-2025.

GEDI and OpenAI deal sparks privacy warning in Italy

Italy’s data protection authority has issued a warning to publisher GEDI over sharing personal data with OpenAI, citing potential violations of EU privacy regulations. GEDI, part of the Agnelli family’s Exor group, entered into a strategic partnership with OpenAI in September to provide Italian-language content for ChatGPT users.

Under the deal, OpenAI’s chatbot would feature GEDI’s attributed content and links, while its journalism could refine the AI’s accuracy. Concerns have arisen due to the sensitive nature of the archives, containing information on millions of individuals. The regulator highlighted that such data requires careful handling and warned of potential sanctions if EU rules are breached.

GEDI clarified that the partnership does not involve selling personal data and noted that the project is still under review. No editorial content has been shared with OpenAI to date, according to a company statement. Discussions with the watchdog are ongoing, with GEDI expressing hope for constructive dialogue to resolve concerns.

Representatives from OpenAI have not yet commented on the matter.

UNDP Bahrain and Derasat partner for digital transformation report

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Bahrain and the Bahrain Center for Strategic, International, and Energy Studies (Derasat) have embarked on a significant partnership to develop the National Human Development Report (NHDR), titled ‘Digital Transformation: A Roadmap for Progress.’ That collaboration aims to harness digital transformation as a strategic tool for fostering inclusive growth in the Kingdom, aligning with Bahrain Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In this context, the NHDR will comprehensively analyse how digital transformation can enhance human development outcomes in Bahrain, addressing critical issues such as the digital divide, privacy concerns, cybersecurity, and integrating digital technologies into public services. Furthermore, the report will benchmark Bahrain’s digital landscape against regional and international standards, offering actionable insights and recommendations to improve digital inclusion, protect privacy, and secure digital infrastructures.

Moreover, the UNDP Bahrain and Derasat highlight the importance of stakeholder engagement in developing the NHDR. By collaborating with government entities, civil society organisations, and the private sector, diverse perspectives will be included to ensure alignment with Bahrain’s national development goals.

Buenos Aires introduces pioneering blockchain-based digital identity for 3.6 million residents

Argentina launched QuarkID, an innovative blockchain-based digital identity system designed to enhance privacy and security for its 3.6 million citizens in Buenos Aires. The pioneering initiative marks a significant milestone as the world’s first government-backed decentralised identity system.

By utilising advanced zero-knowledge (ZK) cryptography through the ZKsync-powered Era layer 2 blockchain, QuarkID enables users to verify their identities without exposing sensitive personal data. Moreover, the system is integrated into the existing MiBa digital platform, allowing residents to securely manage and share verified documents such as birth certificates and tax records.

Starting on 1 October, all MiBa users received decentralised digital identities (DIDs), which empower them to confirm their identity without disclosing unnecessary personal details. Furthermore, with plans for future expansion to include additional documents like driver’s licenses and public permits, QuarkID demonstrates the Argentine government’s commitment to improving public services and setting a new standard for personal data ownership.

Why does it matter?

Argentina launched this initiative to enhance privacy and security and position itself as a model for global initiatives aimed at modernising identity verification processes. Consequently, the success of QuarkID could provide valuable insights and frameworks for other countries exploring the benefits of blockchain technology in digital identity management. By prioritising privacy, security, and user control, Argentina is thus setting a precedent for how digital identities can be effectively managed in the future, ultimately empowering citizens and revolutionising how personal data is handled.

Rebranded World Network boosts iris-scanning crypto push with new devices

Sam Altman’s cryptocurrency project, Worldcoin, has rebranded as World Network and is intensifying its efforts to scan irises worldwide using its “orb” devices. The project’s core feature, World ID, acts as a digital passport to verify individuals as real humans, helping to distinguish them from AI bots online. At an event in San Francisco, World Network revealed an updated version of its orb device, boasting 5G connectivity and enhanced privacy features, alongside new initiatives to improve access to the technology.

Despite signing up over 6.9 million people since its launch in July 2023, the project has faced criticism from privacy advocates regarding the collection and storage of personal data. Several countries, including Spain and Portugal, have temporarily banned the use of the orb devices, while Argentina and Britain are currently reviewing the project.

ITU and UNDP join forces to harness digital technology for sustainable development

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the UN Development Programme (UNDP) have forged a powerful alliance to highlight the transformative potential of digital technology in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By combining their unique strengths, these organisations aim to establish a comprehensive framework that promotes innovation and fosters inclusivity within the digital realm.

Moreover, their partnership is dedicated to addressing critical global challenges by leveraging emerging technologies, ensuring that digital advancements are accessible and beneficial to all sectors of society, particularly marginalised communities. In addition to their commitment to innovation, ITU and UNDP prioritise enhancing digital infrastructure and connectivity in developing regions, fully aware that reliable and affordable internet access is fundamental to sustainable development.

They strive to bridge the digital divide through strategic investments and capacity-building initiatives, empowering local communities with the tools and knowledge to effectively utilise digital technologies. Consequently, this collaborative endeavour is essential for driving economic growth, improving educational opportunities, and enhancing health outcomes in underserved areas, ultimately fostering a more equitable digital ecosystem.

Furthermore, beyond infrastructure development, ITU and UNDP advocate for robust digital governance and policy frameworks that ensure the responsible use of technology. Their initiatives focus on promoting transparency and accountability and prioritise safeguarding privacy and security in the digital age. By emphasising digital literacy and skills development, they are rolling out training programs designed to equip individuals with the confidence to navigate the digital landscape effectively.

Israel establishes national expert forum for AI policy

Israel is proactively shaping its AI landscape by establishing a national expert forum on AI policy and regulation. Led by the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, this initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to responsibly harnessing AI and unites experts to address its challenges and opportunities.

Its primary goal is to develop a comprehensive strategy for AI’s safe and ethical use, fostering innovation and maximising social and economic benefits. Specifically, by addressing data privacy, algorithmic bias, and ethical considerations, the forum aims to create a regulatory framework that supports technological advancements while protecting public interests.

Moreover, regular meetings will foster collaboration and dialogue among members, providing valuable insights to help the ministry navigate the complexities and risks of AI deployment. This collaborative environment will encourage sharing best practices and lessons learned from international AI governance experiences. Additionally, members will play a crucial role in shaping Israel’s policies in response to global developments in AI.

By actively monitoring international trends, the forum will ensure that Israel remains a leader in AI research and application while adhering to responsible governance practices. Ultimately, carefully selecting diverse and expert members will enrich discussions, thereby creating a comprehensive approach to AI governance that benefits all sectors of society.

Quad leaders set principles for Digital Public Infrastructure

The Quad leaders, comprising the United States, India, Japan, and Australia, outlined principles to guide the development and deployment of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) during their 6th Quad Leaders’ Summit in Wilmington, Delaware. Recognising the transformative power of digital technologies, they emphasised the need for DPI to foster inclusivity, ensure security, and promote scalability while respecting privacy and human rights.

The principles aim to provide a blueprint for governments and private sectors to collaborate on creating secure, interoperable digital systems. These systems would offer equitable access, support public service delivery, and drive sustainable development by addressing key challenges such as digital divides, privacy concerns, and cybersecurity risks. They focus on creating an inclusive, safe, and transparent digital ecosystem that can adapt to evolving demands, especially in pursuit of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Among the core principles are:

Inclusivity: Governments should strive to close digital divides by eliminating barriers that hinder access and ensuring no erroneous biases are embedded in digital systems.

Interoperability: DPI should be based on open standards that ensure compatibility across systems, balancing legal and technical requirements.

Scalability: Infrastructure should be designed to accommodate growing demand without significant disruptions.

Security and Privacy: DPI must integrate privacy-enhancing technologies and cybersecurity features to protect users’ data and ensure system resilience.

Collaboration: A culture of openness is encouraged by involving community actors and innovators throughout the DPI’s lifecycle.

Human Rights and Governance: DPI must respect human rights and be governed transparently to maximise public trust and benefit.

Sustainability: DPI should be built with sustainability in mind, ensuring long-term financial and technological viability.

These principles highlight the Quad’s commitment to ensuring that digitalisation leads to equitable, reliable, and sustainable outcomes for societies, strongly emphasising maintaining democratic values and human rights.