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EU Investigating Facebook and Instagram Over Their Handling of Disinformation Ahead of the Election

EU Investigating Disinformation on Facebook and Instagram Ahead of Election

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Facebook and Instagram owned by Meta Platforms are being investigated by the European Commission for possible violations of EU online content regulations. EU IT regulators have responded to concerns over misleading advertising and misinformation ahead of the elections to the European Parliament.

Worries Regarding Deceitful Activities

EU Investigating Facebook and Instagram Over Their Handling of Disinformation Ahead of the Election

Image Source: communicationstoday.co.in

Growing worries regarding the dissemination of false information from both internal and external sources are reflected in the actions taken by EU authorities. The EU is concentrating on combating dishonest activities within its borders, especially by political parties and organisations looking to influence voters with misleading material, as Russia, China, and Iran have been identified as possible suppliers of misinformation.

Authority for Regulation: Digital Services Act

The Digital Services Act (DSA), which mandates that large digital companies take more aggressive action against unlawful and damaging information on their networks, provides the basis for the probe. There are severe penalties for breaking DSA commitments; these fines can reach 6% of a company’s yearly global revenue.

Doubts Regarding Meta's Moderation

Margrethe Vestager, the EU’s digital leader, voiced concerns over Meta’s moderation methods, pointing to a lack of transparency and inadequate action in relation to misleading marketing and content moderation processes. In order to evaluate Meta’s compliance with the DSA, the Commission has started procedures. The investigation will concentrate on matters like coordinated inauthentic behaviour and misinformation operations.

Meta's Reaction

With more than 250 million monthly active users throughout the EU, Meta justified its risk mitigation strategy by emphasising the protocols it has put in place for locating and resolving threats on its platforms. The business said that it would be happy to work with the European Commission and share more information about the steps it is taking to reduce risk.

Particular Issues the Commission Has Raised

Ahead of the elections to the European Parliament, the Commission brought up a number of specific concerns, chief among them being the absence of a reliable third-party platform for real-time civic discourse and election monitoring. Furthermore, criticism has been levelled at Meta for its choice to phase down CrowdTangle, its misinformation-tracking tool, without a viable successor.

Next Actions

Five working days have been granted to Meta to notify the EU of the corrective measures implemented in response to the Commission’s concerns. The investigation’s conclusion will have a big impact on Meta’s business operations in the EU and potentially influence future laws that fight false advertising and internet misinformation.

In summary, The EU’s investigation into Meta over claims of misleading advertising and misinformation highlights the need for strong regulatory frameworks to protect the integrity of online material. In order to stop the spread of false information and preserve democratic values in the digital era, regulatory oversight is crucial given the growing influence that digital platforms have on public opinion.

 
TikTok Introduces New App to Compete With Instagram: Social Media Competition Heats Up

TikTok Introduces New App to Compete With Instagram: Social Media Competition Heats Up

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In an unexpected move that has caused a stir across the social media landscape, TikTok has officially announced its plans to launch a new app designed to compete directly with Instagram. This ambitious venture aims to redefine the social media experience, offering users a unique platform that combines innovative content creation tools with a fresh approach to user engagement.

A Bold Move in the Competitive Arena

TikTok Introduces New App to Compete With Instagram: Social Media Competition Heats Up

Image Source: finance.yahoo.com

TikTok, known primarily for its short-form video content, has seen rapid growth over the past few years, attracting audiences around the world with its engaging and innovative content. However, with the unveiling of its new app, TikTok is moving into an area dominated by Instagram, one of the world’s most popular photo-sharing platforms.

A spokesperson for TikTok said at the official announcement event, “This isn’t just an extension; it’s a revolution.” “Our goal is to create a platform that encourages creativity, fosters community, and redefines what social media can be.”

What Sets the New App Apart?

The new app, whose name is yet to be revealed, promises to integrate the best of TikTok’s video capabilities with a new, sophisticated image-sharing ecosystem. It aims to provide users with a more immersive and interactive experience, offering advanced editing tools, augmented reality features, and a highly intuitive user interface.

One of the key features highlighted during the announcement was the app’s focus on community-driven content. TikTok’s goal is to create a platform where users can not only share their lives but also collaborate, create and engage with content in ways that are not currently possible on Instagram.

The Challenge Ahead

While TikTok’s new venture is ambitious, it faces the significant challenge of carving out a niche in a market dominated by established players like Instagram. Instagram, owned by Meta Platforms (formerly Facebook), has a massive global user base and has continuously evolved its features to keep users engaged.

Experts suggest that for TikTok’s new app to be successful, it will need to offer something truly unique and capture the imagination of users looking for an alternative to the Instagram experience.

Potential Impact on the Social Media Landscape

The announcement has sparked a lively debate among technology experts and social media enthusiasts about the potential impact on the social media ecosystem. Some see TikTok’s move as a positive step towards innovation and competition, which could lead to better features and options for users.

Others caution that the success of the new app will depend on a variety of factors, including user privacy, content moderation, and its ability to foster a positive and inclusive community.

Also Read: Ripple CEO Predicts Crypto Market Explosion to $5 Trillion by 2024

Looking Forward

As the launch date approaches, the tech world is eagerly waiting to see how TikTok’s new app will fare against Instagram. Will it redefine social media, or will it struggle to find its place? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the battle for users’ attention in the social media sphere is not over yet.

With this bold move, TikTok has signaled its intention to not only participate in the social media game but lead it. As details of the new app emerge, the world waits with bated breath to watch the next chapter in social media’s ever-evolving story.

Facebook, Instagram and Threads all Shut Down Due to Massive Meta Outage

Facebook, Instagram, and Threads all Shut Down Due to Massive Meta Outage

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In an unexpected turn of events, major social media platforms Facebook, Instagram, and Threads experienced a widespread outage, leaving millions of users disconnected from their digital lives. This global disruption has raised questions about the stability and reliability of relying on centralized platforms for communication and business operations.

The Outage Explained

Facebook, Instagram and Threads all Shut Down Due to Massive Meta Outage

Image Source: cnbc.com

Early reports indicate that the outage began in the late hours of Tuesday, affecting users across multiple continents. Both individual users and businesses reported an inability to access their accounts, post content, or engage with others on the platforms. The cause of the outage has yet to be officially confirmed by Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.

User Impact and Response

The sudden disconnection left many in a state of confusion and frustration. For a world already deeply integrated with social media for personal communication, entertainment, and business, the absence of these services was keenly felt. Users took to other platforms such as Twitter to share their experiences, seek information, and, in many cases, share humor about the situation.

Business Disruption

Beyond the inconvenience to casual users, the outage has significant implications for businesses and creators who rely on these platforms for marketing, sales, and community engagement. The downtime underscores the vulnerabilities businesses face in a digital-first economy, highlighting the need for diversified communication channels.

Meta's Response

Meta has acknowledged the issue, stating that they are actively working to resolve the outage and restore service as soon as possible. In a brief statement, the company expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to users and assured that updates would follow as more information becomes available.

Also Read: Sorry iPhone users, Samsung Galaxy Ring will not be Compatible with your iPhone

Looking Ahead: Implications for Digital Reliance

This incident serves as a critical reminder of the challenges and risks associated with the global community’s heavy reliance on a few dominant platforms for digital communication and commerce. As Meta works to resolve the current outage, the event may spark broader discussions about the need for more resilient digital infrastructure and the role of decentralization in mitigating such risks.

Conclusion

The global outage affecting Facebook, Instagram, and Threads has brought to light the vulnerabilities inherent in our digital ecosystem. As the world waits for a resolution, the incident prompts reflection on our dependence on technology and the importance of safeguarding our digital society against future disruptions.

Meta Will No Longer Suggest Political Content to Users on Instagram, Threads

Meta Will No Longer Suggest Political Content to Users on Instagram, Threads

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In a significant change in policy, Meta has announced that it will no longer recommend political content to users on Instagram and Threads. The decision marks a significant change in how the social media giant handles the intersection of politics and social networking. This article highlights the implications, rationale and potential impacts of this new policy.

The role of social media in shaping political discourse has increased rapidly. Meta, formerly known as Facebook, has been at the center of this growth. However, it has also faced criticism for its handling of political content and misinformation.

Meta's Announcement

Meta Will No Longer Suggest Political Content to Users on Instagram, Threads

Meta has decided to implement a significant policy change on its social media platform, Instagram and Threads, by no longer recommending political content to its users. This strategic move aims to enhance the overall user experience by creating a more neutral and less divisive social media environment. By reducing the visibility of political content, Meta intends to reduce the spread of misinformation and reduce the potential for polarization among its user base. The decision reflects Meta’s commitment to fostering a more positive and engaging online community, while also addressing growing concerns about the role of social media in political discourse and the spread of political misinformation.

Impact on Users

Instagram and Threads are set to significantly change user experiences, aiming for a more peaceful and personalized social media environment. The move is expected to reduce the risk of unwanted political discussions and content, potentially reducing polarization and promoting a more enjoyable online space for users who seek entertainment, personal connections, or interests beyond the political sphere.

Impact on Political Content

Meta’s decision to stop recommending political content on Instagram and threads is expected to reduce the visibility and reach of political messages, impacting the way these are shared and engaged on the platforms. Political entities may need to adjust their strategies to maintain audience engagement without the aid of algorithmic campaigning.

Global Implications

The impact of META’s policy extends beyond the US. This part considers its implications for global political discourse and regional differences. Looking to the future, Meta is likely to introduce more policies and features aimed at improving user experience and combating misinformation.

Also Read: How to Use Your Apple Watch’s Walkie-Talkie Feature for Instant Communication

Conclusion

Meta’s decision to stop recommending political content on Instagram and Threads is a historic step. This reflects the growing recognition of the role of social media in politics and the need for responsible content curation.

Meta Introduces Labels for AI-Generated Images Shared on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads

Meta Introduces Labels for AI-Generated Images Shared on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads

Leave a Comment / Artificial Intellegence, Facebook, News, Tech News / By

A big move has been launched by Meta, formerly known as Facebook, to address the growing issue of AI-generated photos on its platforms. The business intends to identify artificial intelligence (AI-generated) photographs on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads in the upcoming months. By making this change, consumers will be able to clearly and transparently discern between material provided by AI and content created by humans, which is becoming an increasingly difficult task.

“As the difference between human and synthetic content gets blurred, people want to know where the boundary lies,” states Nick Clegg, President of Global Affairs at Meta.

searchenginejournal.com

Taking Care of the Unclear Boundaries

Meta Introduces Labels for AI-Generated Images Shared on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads

Image Source: openaisea.com

President of Global Affairs at Meta Nick Clegg emphasises the need for openness at a time when it’s getting harder to distinguish between real and fake content. The increasing popularity of AI image-creation technologies makes it necessary for consumers to be aware of the origin and legitimacy of the information they come across on social media.

Future Features & Predictions

In the upcoming months, Meta plans to provide multilingual labelling of AI-generated photographs across all of its platforms. This project is especially important during global elections when the veracity of the information is crucial. To distinguish AI-generated photographs, Meta intends to apply several strategies, including embedded metadata in the image files, visible markers, and invisible watermarks. Furthermore, users will be penalised for failing to notify when the content is produced by AI under the new standards.

These actions emphasise responsible AI development and are in line with best practices that the Partnership on AI (PAI) has advocated.

Looking Forward

To guide its long-term plan, Meta will be actively observing user interaction with labelled AI content over the upcoming year. 

The firm will now use detection technologies to classify AI material from outside suppliers and top AI art platforms, but it presently labels pictures created by its own AI image generator manually.

Users are encouraged to cautiously assess accounts that share photographs in the interim and keep an eye out for visual irregularities that might indicate computer production.

Essential Advice for Companies and Marketers

From Meta’s statement, companies and social media marketers should learn the following important lessons:

  • Authenticity and Transparency: As the use of AI-generated images in marketing grows more widespread, companies should place a high priority on authenticity and transparency, taking into account proactive disclosures.

  • Recognising Audience Preferences: Companies should be aware of whether their target audience prefers “human-made” or artificial intelligence-generated material, and adjust their approach appropriately.

  • Impact on Trust: Marketers should keep a careful eye on user attitude around AI usage, even if properly labelling synthetic material may help to limit negative effects on trust.

  • Ethical AI Development: It is important to emphasise the necessity of ethical AI development and responsible usage since rushing to employ immature AI technology might backfire.

  • Increase in Technology Interest: Marketers should keep up with the latest developments in digital watermarking, metadata standards, and synthetic media identification techniques since these areas are expected to see a rise in interest.

Also Read: WhatsApp Will Soon Work to Enable Chats with Other Encrypted Messaging Apps

Conclusion

When it comes to addressing the issues raised by AI-generated material on social media sites, Meta’s endeavour represents a major advancement. With an emphasis on openness and user knowledge, Meta wants to enable consumers to choose the material they consume with knowledge. Businesses and marketers need to adjust their plans to appropriately negotiate the shifting terrain of synthetic content as the digital media ecosystem continues to change.

Why Instagram's Last Active is Not Showing and How to Enable it?

Why Instagram’s Last Active is Not Showing and How to Enable it?

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Instagram has become a ubiquitous part of our social lives, connecting us with friends, family, and even celebrities. One feature that is often overlooked but plays an important role in this social interaction is the “last active” state. This little information can help us understand when our friends are online or when they have recently checked the app. But what happens when this feature mysteriously disappears or doesn’t work as expected?

The Mystery of Missing Last Active

You’ve probably experienced this yourself – visiting a friend’s chat window only to find the last active status conspicuously absent. Before getting into the intricacies of why this happens, it’s important to understand the basics.

Understanding Instagram's Activity Status Feature

Why Instagram's Last Active is Not Showing and How to Enable it?

Activity status on Instagram shows when a user was last active on the app or when they are currently active. But it’s not just a simple to switch. Privacy concerns have led Instagram to provide settings that control who sees this information.

How to Turn On Activity Status

Turning on your activity status is straightforward.

  • Launch the Instagram app on your device.

  • Tap your profile icon in the bottom right.

  • Tap the menu (three lines) in the top right, then select ‘Settings’.

  • In the Settings menu, select ‘Privacy’.

  • Scroll down to ‘Activity Status’ under Privacy Settings.

  • Turn on the ‘Show activity status’ toggle (it will turn blue).

Reasons Why Last Active Might Not Show

If your activity status is on but you still can’t see the last active status of others, it may be because they have turned off their activity. Remember, this feature is reciprocal – if you hide your status, you can’t see others too.

The Impact of User Behavior

User behavior can also affect the visibility of Last Active. Irregular movement patterns may cause the position to appear incorrect or delayed.

Also Read: Microsoft Copilot vs Copilot Pro: Evaluating the Value of the Subscription Fee

Conclusion

In conclusion, Instagram’s Last Active feature is a useful tool for staying in touch, but it is subject to various factors such as privacy settings, technical issues, and user behavior. Understanding these can improve your Instagram experience while respecting the privacy of others.

FAQs

  1. Can I see Last Active if someone has muted me?

    • No, muting affects the visibility of the Last Active status.

  2. Does Last Active show for all followers?

    • Only when the activity status of both parties is On.

  1. Is it possible to see Last Active without being friends?

    • No, you need to follow each other for this feature to work.

  2. Can I hide my Last Active status from a specific user?

    • Instagram currently does not allow selectively hiding activity status.

  1. Why is my Last Active status showing the wrong time?

    • This may be due to some disorder or irregular activity pattern.