Big Tech news and reports on Federal Newswire

Today, global tech trade association ITI issued a statement from its Executive Vice President of Policy, Gordon Bitko, in response to the U.S. Department of Defense’s (DoD) proposed rule on implementing the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program in DoD contracts.

Threads introduces new features for content management

Today, new web features for Threads were announced, aimed at helping users understand their content's performance and streamline the planning process. These updates are expected to be particularly beneficial for creators and businesses utilizing Threads to connect with audiences.

Netflix partners with Google for 'Emily in Paris' Season 4 launch

On August 15, Netflix and Google announced a partnership to coincide with the premiere of "Emily in Paris" Season 4. This collaboration was celebrated with an event at Los Angeles' Egyptian Theatre, featuring a screening of the first three episodes, a demo of the new "Netflix Stories: Emily in Paris" video game, exclusive photo opportunities, giveaways, and other surprises.

FTC rule could significantly affect online safety and privacy for children

Some of the provisions in the proposed FTC rule mirror the language in COPPA 2.0, while others are only in the legislation.

Virginia law criticized for insufficient consumer protections

The Virginia law received an F grade in a 2024 report by the Electronic Privacy Information Center and US PIRG Education Fund due to its lack of substantial consumer protections.

Mexican cinema day celebrated with 'Pedro Páramo' sneak peek

The recognition of Mexican cinema and literature within and beyond national borders is well-established, resonating deeply as they reflect the nation's identity. Today marks the celebration of National Day of Mexican Cinema, a moment to reaffirm commitment to Mexican cinema and highlight significant projects such as "Pedro Páramo," a film adaptation of Juan Rulfo's novel. Nearly 70 years after its publication, "Pedro Páramo" remains a cornerstone of Mexican literature with universal significance.

Wrongful death suit against Disney highlights concerns over digital agreements

A wrongful death lawsuit against Disney has brought attention to the often-overlooked implications of clicking "I agree" on digital agreements. John Davisson, director of litigation at the Electronic Privacy Information Center, emphasized the challenges consumers face with these contracts.

Colorado passes law protecting neural data amid rising concerns over mental privacy

By Federal Newswire | Aug 14, 2024

In an age where personal data is regularly collected and tracked online, it can feel like our brain is the last truly private place. While people are generally aware that their clicks, likes, and scrolls are recorded and stored, many take solace in the idea that their thoughts remain private. Yet, our “neural” or “mental” privacy is being threatened by the introduction of commercial products that measure and track our brain signals. These brain-based technologies record electrical activity and motor function in the brain, which companies might use to try to discern...

Netflix sets launch date for Swedish series 'The Helicopter Heist

By Federal Newswire | Aug 14, 2024

Netflix announced today that "The Helicopter Heist" will premiere globally on November 22. Based on true events, the action thriller series narrates the meticulous planning, ingenuity, and nerve involved in executing one of history's most daring crimes. The series delves into the details of this notorious event, exploring how it might have unfolded.

Netflix collaborates with Pritish Nandy Communications for new series 'The Royals

By Federal Newswire | Aug 14, 2024

Netflix and Pritish Nandy Communications are set to present a modern-day Indian royalty rom-com series titled "The Royals." The show features Bhumi Pednekar, making her series debut, and Ishaan Khatter. This marks the first collaboration between Netflix and Pritish Nandy Communications.

Netflix launches fund for creative equity in Taiwan

Netflix has announced the launch of the Netflix Fund for Creative Equity in Taiwan, aiming to identify, train, and provide opportunities for emerging creative talent from underrepresented communities worldwide. In collaboration with the Taiwan Creative Content Agency (TAICCA), a six-week series writing workshop will be hosted for new filmmakers in Taiwan.

Importance of teen perspectives emphasized in shaping online safety policies

As digital natives, teenagers are among the most active users of online platforms. According to recent statistics, approximately 95% of teenagers and 40% of children between the ages of eight and twelve engage with social media in the U.S. While social media platforms offer opportunities for connection, learning, support-seeking, and entertainment—necessary for teens’ development—they also expose young users to risks such as cyberbullying, online harassment, discrimination, and even child sexual exploitation.

Grounding ai policy calls for better researcher access to ai usage data

A chair is for sitting. A clock is for telling time. To look at these objects is to understand their primary use. Until recently, AI was, in most cases, a similar technology where design and use were closely linked. A facial recognition system recognized faces, a spellchecker checked spelling. Today though, with the advent of powerful “transformer models,” a single AI application can (at least in appearance) be used to countless ends — to write poetry, evaluate a resume, identify bird species, and diagnose diseases. As possible use cases become broader, so do the potential...

Netflix launches creative equity fund targeting Mexican talent

Netflix announced the launch of the Netflix Fund for Creative Equity in Mexico today. This fund is part of a global initiative started in 2021. With its introduction in the country, Netflix aims to promote Mexican-made content and develop future Mexican audiovisual talents.

Google reverses plan on phasing out third-party cookies

Google's recent announcement to abandon its plan to phase out third-party cookies in its Chrome browser has sparked disappointment among privacy advocates. Initially announced in 2019, the Privacy Sandbox aimed to replace third-party cookies with more privacy-respecting mechanisms. Instead, Google now plans to introduce a new experience in Chrome that will require users to make informed choices about third-party cookies.

CTA responds to White House post-quantum cryptography standards

The following statement is attributed to Gary Shapiro, CEO of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), regarding today’s White House event to secure a post-quantum cryptography future. Announcements included a report on international cooperation in quantum computing technology and post-quantum cryptographic standards from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) at a meeting with government and industry leaders, including CTA members:

Netflix reveals top streaming hits for early August

Super sleuths dominated the Top 10 Lists this week. "Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie" topped the English Films List with 13.4 million views, revealing the mystery of the missing undersea town. Produced by Nickelodeon Animation, the film achieved significant popularity.

Experts discuss risks of sharing Social Security numbers

By Federal Newswire | Aug 12, 2024

Your Social Security number is also mandatory for anything that triggers tax reporting, including your employer reporting your wages to the IRS, said Alan Butler, executive director of the Electronic Privacy Information Center, a nonprofit focused on defending privacy and identity rights.

Concerns raised over Worldcoin's biometric data collection practices

By Federal Newswire | Aug 12, 2024

The Electronic Privacy Information Center, a think tank based in Washington, expressed significant concerns about the Worldcoin project last year. In a statement, Jake Wiener, the group's legal counsel, highlighted two primary issues. “Worldcoin’s approach creates serious privacy risks by bribing the poorest and most vulnerable people to turn over unchangeable biometrics like iris scans and facial recognition images in exchange for a small payout,” Wiener stated. He further noted, “Mass collections of biometrics like Worldcoin threaten people’s privacy on a grand scale, both...