Albania’s TikTok Ban Violated Free Expression, Court Rules

Albania’s Constitutional Court has ruled that the government’s one-year ban on TikTok was a violation of freedom of expression and the press, though it did not infringe on economic freedom. Prime Minister Edi Rama originally implemented the ban in late 2024 following the tragic stabbing of a teenager, citing a survey where 90 percent of parents supported closing the platform. Despite the government lifting the ban in February 2026, the court proceeded with the case to establish a legal precedent for public interest and future legislation. Media organizations and journalists welcomed the ruling as a significant victory for information pluralism and democratic standards in Albania.

Date: March 11, 2026. Source: balkaninsight.com

Sensational, unverifiable, rightwing politics dominates young adults social media feeds, researchers find

A study by the Finnish think-tank Sitra found that social media algorithms predominantly serve young adults sensational, unverifiable, and right-wing political content. By using digital avatars in Finland, France, and Romania, researchers discovered that 67 percent of political posts were opinion-based “entertainment,” such as memes and AI videos, which are difficult to fact-check. The findings revealed a significant political bias, with 58 percent of content leaning right-wing, often persisting even when users expressed a preference for left-wing topics. This algorithmic behavior is particularly concerning because 42 percent of EU youth rely on social media as their primary news source, yet many report feeling negative emotions when encountering such polarizing material. Consequently, the researchers are calling for stricter enforcement of EU digital laws to mitigate these risks and preserve constructive civic discourse.

Date: March 10, 2026. Source: euobserver.com

State actors are behind much of the visual misinformation about the Iran war

During the initial days of the Iran war, AI-generated videos and state-linked propaganda have flooded social media to create false narratives of military success and high casualty rates. Fact-checkers identified several fabricated clips, such as a faked skyscraper explosion in Bahrain, by spotting AI glitches like merged vehicles and distorted human limbs. In response, platforms like X have introduced strict penalties, including 90-day or permanent revenue-sharing suspensions, for accounts that post undisclosed AI-generated war footage.

Date: March 7, 2026. Source: apnews.com

Pentagon labels Anthropic a supply-chain risk in first-ever designation of a US company

The Pentagon has officially designated Anthropic as a “supply-chain risk,” marking the first time a U.S. company has received a label previously reserved for foreign adversaries like Huawei. The dispute stems from Anthropic’s refusal to allow its AI to be used for mass surveillance or fully autonomous weapons, leading to a mandate that defense contractors stop using the company’s Claude models. Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has characterized the move as politically motivated, alleging the administration is favoring competitors who have provided significant political donations. Despite a government-wide ban and a six-month phaseout period, reports indicate the military recently used Anthropic’s technology in operations against Iran.

Date: March 5, 2026. Source: lemonde.fr/en

‘The world is looking to you for clarity’, UN chief tells AI experts

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has convened a new independent panel of 40 global experts to bridge the “AI knowledge gap” and ensure the technology is used for the benefit of humanity. He emphasized that the world urgently needs a shared understanding of AI grounded in science rather than ideology, especially as the technology advances at “lightning speed.” Guterres warned that without clear, factual assessments, fear and misinformation could deepen global divisions and threaten international security. The panel is described as being in a “race against time” to assess the real-world impacts of AI on economies and societies before the pace of development accelerates further.

Date: March 4, 2026. Source: europeansting.com

Orban Brings War into Hungarian Living Rooms

The Hungarian governing party, Fidesz, has sparked widespread outrage by using AI-generated deepfake videos featuring children and graphic war scenes to influence the upcoming April 12 election. These “scaremongering” videos depict families being torn apart by execution and combat, framed by the government as a “nightmare” that the EU and the opposition intend to make a reality. Child rights advocates warn that this strategy is causing real psychological trauma and anxiety among children, while critics argue it represents a new low in emotional manipulation.

Date: March 3, 2026. Source: balkaninsight.com

Hungary’s Orbán stakes his reelection on anti-Ukraine message

Facing a significant polling deficit ahead of the April 2024 election, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has launched an aggressive disinformation campaign casting Ukraine and the EU as existential threats to national security. Orbán is utilizing AI-generated propaganda to claim that supporting Kyiv will lead to economic ruin and the forced conscription of Hungarian youth, effectively diverting public attention away from the cost-of-living crisis championed by his challenger, Péter Magyar. This rhetoric has manifested in high-stakes diplomacy, with Hungary recently blocking EU sanctions on Russia and a €90 billion loan to Ukraine following disputes over Russian oil flows. While critics and opposition leaders label these tactics a betrayal of national interests, the Fidesz party continues to leverage fear-based messaging to position itself as the only “safe choice” for the country’s future.

Date: February 25, 2026. Source: apnews.com

Data protection watchdogs worldwide call for safer AI content, after Grok scandal 

In February 2026, the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) and over 60 global authorities issued a joint statement demanding stricter safeguards against non-consensual AI-generated deepfakes. This unified response follows a major scandal involving Elon Musk’s Grok chatbot, which allowed users to generate explicit images of millions of women and minors. Regulators are calling on developers to implement “fundamental principles,” including proactive misuse prevention, rapid content removal, and enhanced protections for children. While the EU is currently re-examining its landmark GDPR and AI Act through the proposed “Digital Omnibus,” some MEPs are pushing to have non-consensual deepfakes formally classified as an illegal use of technology.

Date: February 23, 2026. Source: euobserver.com

Tech’s politics push at home and abroad

The tech industry is simultaneously expanding its influence in India and consolidating power in Silicon Valley, with companies pledging massive investments at the India AI Impact summit to capture the country’s rapidly growing digital market. India’s prime minister, Narendra Modi, promoted an open‑source, non‑monopolistic vision for AI while highlighting applications aimed at improving agriculture, healthcare, and climate forecasting. Major firms including Google, Microsoft, Amazon, OpenAI, and Anthropic announced multibillion‑dollar datacenter and infrastructure projects to integrate their AI systems more deeply into India’s digital ecosystem. Despite India’s ambitions to become the world’s third major AI power, it still relies on partnerships, particularly with the US, due to its lack of semiconductor manufacturing and energy capacity, a reality reinforced by the newly signed Pax Silica agreement. Meanwhile, in the US, Silicon Valley billionaires are significantly increasing their political spending to influence California’s gubernatorial race and fight proposed wealth taxes.

Date: February 24, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

To ban or not to ban social media for minors?

Czechia has joined a growing list of EU nations pushing for national social media restrictions, a move that signals increasing frustration with the perceived slow pace of Brussels’ enforcement. While countries like France and Spain are pursuing outright age bans, the European Commission and tech chief Henna Virkkunen prefer utilizing existing Digital Services Act (DSA) tools to regulate platform design rather than imposing a bloc-wide prohibition. Experts suggest these national “ban” proposals are likely escalation tactics intended to pressure action at the EU level. Ultimately, research indicates that design-based interventions, such as stricter age-assurance and limits on user profiling may be more effective than blanket bans, which often inadvertently push minors toward riskier, hidden accounts.

Date: February 16, 2026. Source: euractiv.com

Top European AI boss warns of US tech concentration at India summit

Top European AI leader Arthur Mensch, CEO of Mistral AI, warned at the India AI Impact Summit that artificial intelligence risks becoming overly concentrated in the hands of just a few tech giants. He cautioned that such consolidation could grant these companies excessive geopolitical leverage and undermine global technological sovereignty. Mensch urged countries and economic blocs to develop their own AI infrastructure to maintain a stable balance of power. His remarks contrasted with the more optimistic tone of U.S. executives, who highlighted their companies’ dominance and future ambitions in the AI sector.

Date: February 19, 2026. Source: euobserver.com

Countries that do not embrace AI could be left behind, says OpenAI’s George Osborne

Highlighting the aggressive geopolitical race for digital supremacy, former UK Chancellor George Osborne, now working for OpenAI, warned global leaders in Delhi that failing to rapidly adopt AI will leave their nations weaker and poorer. Speaking at an AI summit in Delhi, he argued that countries must choose between adopting systems developed in either the US or China to avoid being left behind in the global technological revolution. Osborne suggests that workforces in non-AI-adopting nations may migrate to seek better opportunities in more technologically advanced economies. However, some governments also expressed concerns about relying on AI systems largely developed in the United States and China and about protecting national sovereig

Date: February 18, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Spain seeks probe into AI-generated child sexual abuse on TikTok, X and Meta

Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has called for a criminal investigation into X, Meta, and TikTok over their alleged role in generating and disseminating AI-created child sexual abuse material. A report cited by Spain found that AI tools and social media enable the rapid production and spread of such content, with about one in five Spanish children reportedly affected by AI sexualised deepfakes. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said stronger rules are needed, including potential legal liability for social media executives and a possible ban on social media use for children under 16.

Date: February 17, 2026. Source: euobserver.com

Keir Starmer promises smartphone crackdown for under-16s within months

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has pledged to implement a significant crackdown on smartphone and social media use for children and teenagers within months to enhance online safety. Proposed reforms include setting minimum age limits for social media, restricting “infinite scrolling,” and preventing children from using VPNs to access adult content. The government is also closing legal loopholes to force AI chatbot providers to comply with the Online Safety Act, following a dispute with Elon Musk’s Grok. A formal consultation will launch in March, with ministers planning to introduce new powers through the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill to respond quickly to technological changes. .

Date: February 16, 2026. Source: independent.co.uk

Russia targets WhatsApp as it pushes homegrown messenger app

Russian authorities have officially blocked access to WhatsApp and placed severe restrictions on Telegram as part of an intensified campaign to centralize control over the country’s digital space. Both WhatsApp and Telegram executives have condemned the move, characterizing it as an attempt to force over 100 million users onto “Max,” a state-backed “super app” that critics warn is designed for surveillance and political censorship. While WhatsApp remains accessible through VPNs, authorities are increasingly targeting such workarounds, and officials say the platform’s future in Russia depends on Meta’s willingness to comply with local laws.

Date: February 12, 2026. Source: politico.eu

EU top court unblocks WhatsApp’s fight against millions in privacy fines

The EU’s top court has ruled that WhatsApp can pursue its challenge against a €225 million privacy fine, opening the door for companies to contest binding decisions by the European Data Protection Board (EDPB). The case stems from a 2021 ruling in which the Irish Data Protection Commission initially proposed a much lower fine, but the EDPB intervened and ordered it increased. The judgment is expected to unlock multiple pending appeals, many involving Meta. The case will now return to the EU’s General Court to assess the substance of the fine and whether WhatsApp violated EU data protection rules.

Date: February 10, 2026. Source: politico.eu

India seeks to challenge AI dominance of US, China

India is leading a global summit in New Delhi to advocate for the “democratization” of artificial intelligence, pushing for resources to be made more affordable and accessible to all nations. The proposal promotes open-source systems and a charter to spread foundational AI tools more broadly, challenging the dominance of U.S. and Chinese tech giants. The language may face resistance from Washington and Beijing, which declined to sign the previous summit’s declaration. India frames the initiative as supporting the Global South, though critics argue it is largely strategic branding and investment-driven.

Date: February 15, 2026. Source: politico.eu

UAE harnesses AI to slash bureaucracy and speed up public services

The United Arab Emirates is accelerating the use of artificial intelligence to reform public services, with AI a central focus at the 2026 World Governments Summit in Dubai. Officials highlighted the country’s “zero-bureaucracy” programme, launched in 2023, which uses AI and digital tools to reduce processing times. Technologies such as facial recognition and smart biometric gates have reshaped services like airport processing, creating largely queue-free systems. UAE leaders say the country aims not just to innovate but to deploy AI at record speed, positioning itself as a neutral global hub for technological collaboration.

Date: February 13, 2026. Source: euronews.com

UN creates first global AI safety panel as tech insiders sound alarm over the technology

The United Nations has officially established its first global AI safety panel, a landmark body designed to assess the risks and coordinate international regulation of artificial intelligence. The panel, composed of 40 experts from around the world, will produce annual reports to help governments and societies better understand the technology as it rapidly evolves. Its creation comes amid growing alarm from tech insiders and former AI company employees about the dangers posed by unchecked AI development. While the initiative aims to provide a credible, science-based foundation for international AI understanding, the United States opposed the panel, calling it an overreach of the UN’s mandate.

Date: February 13, 2026. Source: euronews.com

Spain’s foreign ministry under fire over press freedom and centralisation

Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is facing growing criticism for its increasing centralisation and restrictions on press access since José Manuel Albares took office. Journalists have condemned what they see as a “law of silence” within the ministry, with accusations of blacklists, limited access to diplomats, and opaque briefings. This controversy intensified after Albares was accused of barring a journalist from the ministry. Critics, including diplomats, claim that the ministry’s communication strategy is undermining transparency, weakening Spain’s diplomatic effectiveness, and fostering an atmosphere of fear. In response, the ministry denied the accusations, calling them “hoaxes,”.

Date: February 10, 2026. Source: euractiv.com

Is the EU really censoring Americans, interfering in elections and targeting conservative content?

A Republican-led U.S. House committee report alleges the European Commission pressured social media platforms to censor content and influence elections in several European countries, claims the EU rejects as “pure nonsense.” These critics argue that the EU’s content moderation rules pressure American tech companies to suppress legal political speech in Europe. In response, the European Commission maintains that the DSA is a necessary tool to combat illegal content, disinformation, and foreign interference while protecting the fundamental rights of all citizens.

Date: February 9, 2026. Source: euronews.com

Spain v social media giants: What’s the big dispute about?

The European Commission has found that TikTok’s design features, including infinite scroll and autoplay, breach the EU’s Digital Services Act by encouraging compulsive use and failing to protect users’ wellbeing. Regulators say these “addictive” elements can push users especially children and teenagers into what they described as “autopilot” behaviour. The Commission’s preliminary findings conclude that TikTok hasn’t adequately assessed or mitigated the risks posed by these features. TikTok now faces possible enforcement actions and must respond before any final ruling or potential fines under EU law.

Date: February 6, 2026. Source: euronews.com

Albania lifts TikTok ban

The Albanian government has officially lifted its nearly year-long ban on TikTok, which was imposed following a fatal stabbing incident linked to a social media dispute. This reversal also coincides with a legal challenge brought by the Albanian Journalists Association and other NGOs, who argued that the blanket prohibition violated the constitutional right to freedom of expression.

Date: February 5, 2026. Source: euractiv.com

Musk labels Spain PM ‘tyrant’ after Madrid proposes social media curbs

Elon Musk has sparked a diplomatic row by labeling Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez a “tyrant and traitor” on his social media platform, X. The insult came in response to the Spanish government’s proposal to implement strict new regulations, including a potential ban on social media for children under the age of 16. The billionaire’s criticism was sparked by a legislative package that aims to hold tech executives criminally liable for illegal content and create stricter age-verification barriers.

Date: February 4, 2026. Source: aljazeera.com

French headquarters of Elon Musk’s X raided by Paris cybercrime unit

French authorities recently raided the Paris headquarters of Elon Musk’s social media platform, X, as part of an extensive investigation into alleged cybercrimes. The probe, supported by Europol, focuses on concerns regarding biased algorithm manipulation, the spread of sexual deepfakes, and the distribution of child abuse imagery. In addition to the search, prosecutors have summoned Musk and former CEO Linda Yaccarino for questioning scheduled for April. While X has dismissed the raid as “law enforcement theater” with political motives.

Date: February 3, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Spain moves to ban social media for under 16s

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced plans to introduce legislation that would ban social media access for children under the age of 16. The proposed law aims to protect minors from online risks such as addiction, violence, and exposure to inappropriate content, which the Prime Minister described as a “digital wild west.” To enforce these restrictions, the government intends to mandate “real barriers” through effective age verification systems and hold tech executives legally responsible for platform infringements. This move aligns Spain with other European nations like France and Denmark, reflecting a growing regional trend toward stricter digital safeguards for youth.

Date: February 3, 2026. Source: euractiv.com

EU probes Musk’s Grok AI feature over deepfakes of women, minors

The European Commission has launched a formal investigation into Elon Musk’s social media platform X over its AI chatbot, Grok, following reports that the tool was used to create non-consensual sexualized deepfakes of women and minors. Regulators are examining whether the platform violated the Digital Services Act (DSA) by failing to properly assess and mitigate the systemic risks of disseminating illegal and harmful content. European officials emphasized that “digital undressing” and the exploitation of minors are unacceptable violations of privacy that will not be treated as “collateral damage” of technological innovation.

Date: January 26, 2026. Source: aljazeera.com

EU launches inquiry into X over sexually explicit images made by Grok AI

The European Commission has launched a formal investigation into Elon Musk’s social media platform X to determine if its AI chatbot, Grok, violated the Digital Services Act by generating and spreading sexually explicit deepfakes. The inquiry follows reports that the tool produced approximately 3 million sexualized images in less than two weeks, including thousands of depictions that appeared to involve minors. Regulators are specifically examining whether X failed to implement adequate safeguards and properly mitigate “systemic risks” before integrating the AI functionality into its service. In response to the international outcry, X has introduced new guardrails to prevent the digital “stripping” of real people.

Date: January 26, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

French lawmakers vote to ban social media use by under-15s

French lawmakers have passed a bill that would ban children under the age of 15 from using social media, a measure championed by President Emmanuel Macron to combat excessive screen time and mental health risks. The legislation, which also includes a ban on mobile phones in high schools, aims to protect teenagers from addictive algorithms and harmful content like cyberbullying. If approved by the Senate, the ban is intended to take effect at the start of the 2026 school year, with platforms required to deactivate non-compliant accounts by the end of that year. While the move follows a similar ban in Australia, critics argue it represents a form of “digital paternalism” that may be difficult to enforce effectively.

Date: January 27, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

UK police to use AI facial recognition tech linked to Israel’s war on Gaza

Gemini said

British Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced a nationwide expansion of facial recognition technology, increasing the UK’s fleet of surveillance vans from 10 to over 50. The software being used is provided by Corsight AI, an Israel-based firm whose technology has been extensively deployed by the Israeli military to track and detain Palestinians at checkpoints in Gaza. This partnership has sparked significant backlash from human rights organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, who argue the technology facilitates mass privacy violations and has been “battle-tested” in conflict zones.

Date: January 28, 2026. Source: aljazeera.com

UK ministers launch consultation on whether to ban social media for under-16s

UK ministers launched a consultation to consider banning children under 16 from using social media as part of a wider effort to curb mobile phone usage among young people. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall announced the move in response to mounting pressure from parents, teachers, and bereaved families, including the mother of murdered teenager Brianna Ghey. While Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed openness to the ban, he noted a desire to review evidence from similar restrictions in Australia before making a final decision.

Date: January 19, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Experts warn of threat to democracy from ‘AI bot swarms’ infesting social media

A global consortium of experts has warned that political leaders could soon deploy swarms of human-imitating AI agents to manipulate public opinion and undermine democracy. These “AI swarms” can autonomously infiltrate online communities and fabricate consensus, posing a significant threat to election integrity. The experts are calling for coordinated global action, including the development of “swarm scanners” and mandatory content watermarking to counter this unregulated threat.

Date: January 22, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

AI-driven digital manipulation ‘tested’ Dutch election integrity, researchers warn

Researchers from the Dutch Hybrid Election Integrity Observatory warned that the October 2025 elections faced unprecedented digital pressure from AI-driven manipulation and foreign interference. Although the volume of AI content was relatively low, it proved highly effective, with some deepfake posts generating 23 times more engagement than standard political content. The study highlighted the use of AI-generated songs and images to spread disinformation across social media platforms. While the election remained fundamentally fair, the report urged for more agile European regulations to counter future digital threats to democratic integrity.

Date: January 16, 2026. Source: euobserver.com

More than 100,000 people urge MPs to ban social media for under-16s in UK

A significant majority of the UK public is urging the government to ban social media for children under 16 to protect their mental health and safety. Prime Minister Keir Starmer indicated that “all options are on the table,” marking a shift from his previous skepticism regarding the enforceability of such a ban. Supporters of the move, including major teaching unions, argue that children need stronger protections from global platforms designed to maximize screen time and profit. Conversely, some youth mental health charities caution that a ban may penalize children for the failures of tech firms and could push online activity toward less regulated spaces.

Date: January 15, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Serbian Prosecutors Urged to Probe Shutdowns of Critical Social Media

Rights groups and media associations in Serbia have called on prosecutors to investigate a series of coordinated shutdowns affecting social media accounts critical of the government. The incident is framed as a form of censorship by disruption, with alleged threats tied to criticism of the president and coordinated activity that triggered platform enforcement. The article explicitly notes that some affected accounts included student-run profiles “that enjoy public trust,” showing how information control can directly erode trust in democratic public spheres.

Date: January 20, 2026. Source: balkaninsight.com

Fact check: AI fakes and old videos mislead on Iran protests

Deutsche Welle’s fact-check reveals that recent anti-government protests in Iran have been accompanied by a surge of AI-generated misinformation and outdated videos shared on social media. While real demonstrations have occurred, several viral clips including those showing massive crowds or dramatic “blackouts” were found to be digital fakes or footage from previous years. This disinformation campaign has complicated efforts to verify the true scale of the unrest as the Iranian government continues to restrict internet access.

Date: January 14, 2026. Source: dw.com

UK politics ‘constantly suffering’ from online disinformation, says Labour MP

A senior Labour MP has warned that British democracy is under constant attack from online disinformation campaigns orchestrated by both state and non-state actors. The Foreign Affairs Select Committee highlighted the dangers of bot farms and biased algorithms that amplify false narratives, such as describing UK cities as lawless. The committee is calling on tech giants like X, Meta, and TikTok to provide evidence regarding their efforts to combat these digital threats to the political system.

Date: January 18, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Tech companies’ access to UK ministers dwarfs that of child safety groups

An analysis of government transparency data reveals that major technology companies have been granted significantly more meetings with UK ministers than child safety organizations. While tech giants held dozens of discussions regarding digital policy and regulation, advocacy groups focused on protecting children online secured only a small fraction of that access. Critics argue that this imbalance allows commercial interests to exert disproportionate influence over upcoming safety legislation at the expense of vulnerable users.

Date: January 17, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Malaysia blocks Grok amid uproar over nonconsensual sexualised images

Malaysia became the second country to temporarily block Elon Musk’s AI chatbot, Grok, following a similar move by Indonesia. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) issued the ban after the tool was repeatedly misused to generate “obscene and nonconsensual” sexualized images, including those involving minors. Regulators argued that existing safeguards were insufficient, as the platform’s developer, xAI, relied primarily on user reporting rather than addressing the tool’s inherent design risks. The restriction is intended to remain in place until the company implements more effective technical moderation to prevent the creation and spread of harmful deepfake content.

Date: January 12, 2026. Source: aljazeera.com

Grok scandal highlights how AI industry is ‘too unconstrained’, tech pioneer says

Leading AI expert Yoshua Bengio has criticized the artificial intelligence industry for being “too unconstrained” following a scandal involving Elon Musk’s Grok AI tool. The tool allowed users to generate non-consensual sexualized images of real people, including politicians, sparking a global outcry. Bengio argues that powerful AI systems are being deployed without necessary societal guardrails, posing visible negative effects on individuals and the public sphere.

Date: January 15, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Network linked to Israel pushes to shape external Iran protest narrative

An investigation has uncovered a coordinated network of social media accounts, allegedly linked to Israeli interests, working to shape the international narrative surrounding the 2026 protests in Iran. The network uses sophisticated bot activity and high-profile influencers to amplify slogans that align with Western interests. Analysts suggest that the campaign aims to frame the unrest as a call for regime change favorable to foreign powers rather than a purely internal movement for economic and social reform.

Date: January 15, 2026. Source: aljazeera.com

Elon Musk says UK wants to suppress free speech as X faces possible ban

The UK government threatened to fine or potentially ban the social media platform X after its AI tool, Grok, was used to generate unauthorized sexually explicit and “nudified” images of women and children. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall warned that the platform could be blocked under the Online Safety Act if it fails to effectively prevent the creation of such harmful material. Elon Musk responded by accusing the UK government of attempting to “suppress free speech,” while also noting a surge in downloads for the Grok app following the controversy.

Date: January 10, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Software tackling deepfakes to be piloted for Scottish and Welsh elections

The UK Electoral Commission is launching a pilot project to detect AI-generated deepfakes ahead of upcoming elections in Scotland and Wales. The initiative aims to protect candidates from misinformation and targeted harassment by identifying hoax videos and images before they can spread during the campaign. Upon detection, officials plan to alert the police, notify the affected candidates, and inform the public while urging social media platforms to remove the fraudulent content. The Commission is seeking legally enforceable “takedown” powers from the UK government to ensure social media companies are required to remove malicious AI-generated material.

Date: January 8, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Iran plunged into internet blackout as protests over economy spread nationwide

Iran was plunged into a complete nationwide internet blackout as authorities attempted to suppress rapidly spreading protests sparked by a severe economic crisis and currency collapse. According to the article, demonstrations have expanded to all 31 provinces, evolving from economic grievances into broader anti-government sentiment, with human rights groups reporting at least 45 deaths during the crackdown.

Date: January 8, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Grok turns off image generator for most users after outcry over sexualised AI imagery

Elon Musk’s AI tool, Grok, has disabled its image creation feature for most users following a global outcry over its role in generating sexually explicit and violent imagery of women and children. The decision comes as the UK government and regulators threatened X with significant fines or a potential ban under the Online Safety Act if the platform failed to curb the “nudifying” content. While the feature remains available to paying subscribers whose data is stored for identification, critics argue this move merely turns a harmful tool into a premium service. Despite the restrictions on the main platform, researchers found that a separate Grok app was still capable of generating photorealistic pornographic and violent content without consent.

Date: January 9, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Fact check: The disinformation we debunked in 2025

In 2025, DW’s fact-checking team observed that disinformation became increasingly sophisticated, heavily utilizing AI-generated deepfakes and manipulated media to distort reality. Major global events, particularly the escalation of regional conflicts and high-stakes international elections, served as primary catalysts for the viral spread of false narratives. The report highlights a significant trend where “cheapfakes”—low-tech edits of real footage—remained just as effective at misleading the public as complex artificial intelligence.

Date: December 30, 2025. Source: dw.com

France targets Australia-style social media ban for children next year

The French government has introduced a draft bill to ban social media use for children under the age of 15, aiming for implementation by September 2026. President Emmanuel Macron is a key advocate for the measure, citing research that links excessive screen time to declining school performance and rising mental health issues. The proposed law also includes a total ban on mobile phones in high schools, extending existing restrictions already in place for primary and middle school students.

Date: December 31, 2025. Source: theguardian.com

More than half a million pounds spent on influencers by UK government since 2024

The UK government has spent more than £500,000 on social media influencers since 2024 to promote various public campaigns, according to figures obtained via Freedom of Information requests. This expenditure involves hiring 215 influencers—with 126 engaged in 2025 alone—as part of a strategic shift to reach younger audiences on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. While Downing Street defends the move as a necessary way to engage disengaged voters, critics and lobby journalists argue the practice avoids traditional media scrutiny and relies on “softball” questioning.

Date: December 25, 2025. Source: theguardian.com

Trump administration bans two British free speech campaigners from US as censorship row escalates

The Trump administration has banned two British free speech campaigners, Imran Ahmed of the CCDH and Clare Melford of the GDI, from entering the U.S. as part of an escalating row over digital censorship. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused the pair of leading efforts to coerce American platforms into suppressing opposing viewpoints, labeling them “radical activists.” The move is part of a broader crackdown that includes visa bans for several European officials, including former EU Commissioner Thierry Breton, over their roles in regulating social media. European leaders, including Emmanuel Macron, have condemned the move as an act of intimidation against digital sovereignty and regulation.

Date: December 25, 2025. Source: independent.co

The EU laws reining in big tech and fighting disinformation – but angering Trump

The European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA) and Digital Markets Act (DMA) have become major points of contention between Brussels and the Trump administration. These laws, designed to curb the power of Big Tech and police online content, are viewed by the U.S. government as tools for censoring American viewpoints and unfairly targeting U.S. companies. In response, the U.S. has implemented travel bans on European officials involved in enforcing these regulations, escalating a trade and diplomatic rift.

Date: December 24, 2025. Source: france24.com

Public don’t perceive how fast AI is reshaping journalism

The article highlights a significant gap between the rapid integration of AI in newsrooms and the general public’s awareness of its influence on journalism. While media organizations are increasingly using AI for efficiency and content creation, experts warn that this shift could undermine trust if transparency is not prioritized. Industry leaders emphasize that the “human touch” remains essential for accountability, even as automated tools become more sophisticated. Ultimately, the report calls for better communication with audiences to ensure they understand how AI is being used to shape the information they consume.

Date: December 23, 2025. Source: euractiv.com

Backlash after CBS pulls 60 Minutes report on El Salvador’s CECOT prison

CBS is facing significant backlash after pulling a “60 Minutes” report about El Salvador’s controversial CECOT mega-prison just before its scheduled airing. Critics and journalists have accused the network of self-censorship, suggesting the decision may have been influenced by a desire to avoid friction with the Trump administration or El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele. While CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss defended the move by citing a need for “comprehensive and fair” coverage, others argue it undermines journalistic independence regarding human rights issues. The segment was expected to highlight the harsh conditions within the facility, which has become a symbol of Bukele’s aggressive crackdown on gangs.

Date: December 23, 2025. Source: aljazeera.com

Denmark blames Russia for cyberattacks on water utility and election websites

Denmark publicly attributed cyberattacks on critical infrastructure and election-related government websites to pro-Russian hacking groups linked to the Russian state. Authorities said the goal was to create insecurity and punish Denmark for supporting Ukraine—classic “hybrid” pressure tactics. The episode also spotlights how vulnerabilities (including cost-cutting on cybersecurity) can amplify distrust when essential systems fail or appear compromised.

Date: December 19, 2025. Source: euronews.com

Former Swiss intelligence officer targeted by new EU sanctions against Russia

Swissinfo reports that the EU sanctioned former Swiss colonel Jacques Baud, describing him as a conduit for pro‑Russian propaganda and conspiracy narratives under measures aimed at information manipulation.
The article notes these sanctions are part of a broader EU package responding to information manipulation and cyberattacks. It also highlights a regulatory asymmetry: while the EU can sanction individuals, Switzerland indicated it would not mirror this “destabilising activities” list—showing how fragmented frameworks can leave gaps in countering digital influence.

Date: December 19, 2025. Source: swissinfo.ch

How Europe’s far right used unlabelled AI to win votes — and now writes the rules

Far-right parties in Europe reportedly used unlabeled AI and “cheapfakes” to influence voters during the 2024 elections. Consequently, 37 MEPs from these parties now sit on committees tasked with regulating the very digital tools they used. This creates a paradox where lawmakers who benefited from AI manipulation are now writing the rules to prevent it. Currently, no EU mechanism exists to sanction political parties for these ethical breaches.

Date: December 22, 2025. Source: euobserver.com

US social media rules for tourists could have ‘chilling effect’ on travel

The U.S. travel industry warns that a new proposal requiring visitors to provide five years of social media history could deter international tourists. Part of a stricter vetting policy, the rule would affect millions of travelers from 42 “visa waiver” countries. Experts fear these requirements will divert billions in revenue to other nations ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Certain work visa applicants are already being forced to make their private social media profiles public for government inspection.

Date: December 15, 2025. Source: aljazeera.com

Trump signs executive order aimed at preventing states from regulating AI

President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at preventing states from regulating artificial intelligence and halting any state laws that limit the technology. The order, which lacks the full force of law, creates a federal taskforce whose “sole responsibility” will be to challenge state AI regulations in court. Critics, including civil liberties groups, worry the order will empower Big Tech and expose vulnerable people to the harms of unchecked AI development.

Date: December 12, 2025. Source: theguardian.com

Foreign states using AI videos to undermine support for Ukraine, says Yvette Cooper

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has warned that foreign states are using AI-generated videos and deepfakes to conduct “information warfare” and undermine support for Ukraine. She highlighted that new technologies have lowered the barrier for malign actors to interfere in democracies and sow social division.

Date: December 8, 2025. Source: theguardian.com

YouTube channels spreading fake, anti-Labour videos viewed 1.2bn times in 2025

A study has revealed that over 150 anonymous YouTube channels are using cheap AI tools to churn out fake, inflammatory stories about the UK Labour party, amassing 1.2 billion views. The content includes AI-generated scripts and deepfakes targeting politicians like Keir Starmer, often monetized through the platform’s ad system. This highlights how unregulated AI content creation is being used to manipulate political discourse and profit from division.

Date: December 13, 2025. Source: theguardian.com

Tensions boil over in wake of EU landmark €120m fine against X

The European Commission has fined Elon Musk’s platform X €120 million for breaching the Digital Services Act (DSA), specifically regarding deceptive design and lack of transparency. The decision sparked a backlash from Musk and US officials, highlighting the conflict between EU attempts to regulate digital platforms and the “free speech” absolutism that resists such oversight. The fine represents the first major enforcement action under the EU’s new digital rulebook.

Date: December 8, 2025. Source: euobserver.com

Millions of children and teens lose access to accounts as Australia’s world-first social media ban begins

Australia has enacted a world-first ban on social media for all users under the age of 16, leading to millions of account deactivations. Major platforms like TikTok and Instagram must comply or face massive fines. Though not perfect, the ban establishes a clear national standard, yet some parents are reportedly helping children bypass the restrictions. The initiative has garnered significant global attention, with other countries now considering similar age bans.

Date: December 9, 2025. Source: theguardian.com

AI Deepfakes of Real Doctors Spreading Health Misinformation on Social Media

An investigation by the fact-checking organization Full Fact uncovered hundreds of AI-generated deepfake videos hosted on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. These videos manipulate real footage of respected doctors and health influencers to falsely promote unproven supplements, particularly for menopause and other ailments. One expert reported that it took six weeks and multiple complaints to get the platforms to remove the videos, highlighting the dangerously slow response time of social media giants to malicious content. Critics warn that if individuals posing as doctors faced criminal prosecution, the same standard should apply to the creators of these digital fabrications.

Date: December 5, 2025. Source: theguardian.com

‘I don’t take no for an answer’: how a small group of women changed the law on deepfake porn

A campaign in the UK led to the rapid passage of the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025, which criminalized the creation of non-consensual deepfake intimate images. This legislative victory addresses a significant gap in protection, as previous laws required proving intent to cause distress, which was often impossible. The new consent-based law, which includes provisions for forced deletion of the material, marks a major step in regulating the uncontrolled spread of digital harms. It demonstrates how legislative action can quickly respond to emerging digital threats.

December 4, 2025. theguardian.com

‘It was extremely pornographic’: Cara Hunter on the deepfake video that nearly ended her political career

Irish politician Cara Hunter recounted being targeted by a malicious deepfake video during her 2022 election run, an event that almost ended her career. She highlighted the challenge of fighting these attacks, particularly on platforms like WhatsApp where encrypted messages protect users’ privacy over victims’ rights. Hunter has since become a key voice pushing for stronger digital regulation, noting the severe, disproportionate impact these tools have on women in politics. This case illustrates the real-world harm of unregulated synthetic media on democratic processes.

December 1, 2025. theguardian.com

Ukraine risks exclusion from sensitive projects in Horizon Europe

An internal European Commission memo revealed that Ukraine risks exclusion from participating in sensitive areas of the EU’s Horizon Europe research program, including projects related to AI, quantum computing, and digital technologies. The potential ban for 2026 and 2027 is based on the Commission’s assessment that Ukraine has provided “insufficient assurances” for the security of these sensitive topics. This move highlights the geopolitical dimension of digital regulation, where access to cutting-edge, politically strategic technology is increasingly restricted based on national security concerns. Conversely, countries like Canada and the United Kingdom have provided “sufficient assurances” to participate in these restricted topics.

November 27, 2025. sciencebusiness.net

Anthropic warns of AI-driven hacking campaign linked to China

AI company Anthropic reported disrupting what researchers believe is the first operation to use artificial intelligence to largely automate a hacking campaign, linked to the Chinese government. The use of AI agents to direct cyberattacks is a disturbing development that could significantly expand the reach and effectiveness of state-sponsored hackers. These advanced AI tools can be weaponized by foreign adversaries to automate attacks, spread inflammatory disinformation, and generate digital clones of government officials. This development demonstrates the rapid evolution of unregulated AI capabilities and the increasing viability of large-scale cyberattacks aimed at political and economic targets.

Nov 14, 2025 aljazeera.com

EU proposes softening AI and data privacy regulations

The European Commission presented plans to ease regulations on AI and data privacy, claiming the move is necessary for the bloc to compete with tech firms in the US and East Asia. Key proposals include delaying stricter rules for high-risk AI and softening rules on the use of “cookies” to reduce administrative burdens for businesses. The executive body also seeks to establish when data is no longer considered “personal,” potentially paving the way for firms to use anonymous EU data for AI training. Critics, including prominent privacy activist Max Schrems, accused the Commission of caving to Big Tech lobbying and undermining fundamental digital rights. The debate highlights the tension between promoting economic competitiveness and maintaining Europe’s role as a leader in robust digital regulation.

Nov 19, 2025 dw.com

Taiwan to distribute safety handbook on how to prepare for ‘Chinese aggression’

Taiwan announced plans to distribute a new public safety handbook to citizens on preparing for potential Chinese aggression. The official guidance specifically addresses the threat of hybrid warfare, which includes digital tools such as cyberattacks, infiltration, and misinformation campaigns. The handbook advises locals on dealing with these digital-age political weapons, underscoring the shift of geopolitical conflict into the cyber and information spheres. This preparedness measure highlights the challenges faced by democracies in managing unregulated digital threats from authoritarian state actors.

Nov 20, 2025 independent.co.uk

China’s ‘super app’ WeChat has become a powerful police surveillance tool

New research indicates that the Chinese ‘super-app’ WeChat has expanded its function beyond social media to become a key component of China’s public security infrastructure. The app’s integration into daily life, from messaging to mobile payments, means everyday digital activities are feeding into a sophisticated state security architecture. This joint operation between the state and a private company illustrates the risks of unregulated digital governance and mass surveillance. For the tech giant, compliance with government demands is necessary for business survival, severely impacting user privacy. This situation presents a significant challenge for Chinese diaspora communities who rely on the app to connect globally.

Nov 20, 2025 independent.co.uk