What is the price of privacy?
No. 67: Bringing you the news that matters in video privacy and security
Personalisation in online experiences and convenience often comes at a price - our personal data, which raises questions about the cost of our privacy. Social media companies, apps, and other businesses and services are consistently collecting and analysing our personal data to enhance our online and offline experiences. We share our preferences, habits, and even biometric data for tailored experiences, but are we sacrificing too much for the sake of ease?
X (previously known as Twitter) has announced the app will soon collect biometric and employment data as a means of online verification. This runs several risks: unauthorised access, possible inaccuracies in identification, and the chance for surveillance and tracking - potentially violating regulatory and legal standards.
Fitness tracker, Fitbit, is facing three privacy complaints in the European Union, alleging that it violates data protection rules by exporting user data without obtaining valid consent. The complaints from privacy advocacy group, noyb, argue that Fitbit is forcing users to consent to data transfers to the US and elsewhere - not meeting the required legal standards under GDPR.
With the expansion of Big Tech, it's essential to acknowledge what handing our data over in exchange for convenience really means, and its implications for our privacy. It is essential to stay informed, and for businesses to comply with data laws as they continue to evolve to protect data rights.
As always, please send any feedback or topics of interest you would like to be covered.
Seena, Editor
News
Fitbit faces GDPR complaints over data transfer practices
Advocacy group Noyb has filed complaints against Fitbit in multiple EU countries, alleging violations of the GDPR. Fitbit is accused of forcing users to consent to data transfers outside the EU without providing an option to withdraw consent.
Tech Crunch: Fitbit targeted with trio of data transfer complaints in Europe
Reuters: Privacy activist Schrems files complaints against Google's Fitbit
NYPD’s use of drones sparks privacy concerns
The New York City police have been criticised for their plans to deploy surveillance drones to monitor large gatherings and noise complaints over Labor Day weekend. Critics argue that using drones raises constitutional and privacy issues, while authorities defend the move as a tool for maintaining public safety during the holiday weekend.
The Guardian: New York plan to monitor Labor Day parties with drones prompts outcry
The New York Times: N.Y.P.D. Will Use Drones to Monitor Labor Day Celebrations
Social media giant, X, to collect biometric and employment data
X (formerly Twitter) has updated its privacy policy to allow for the collection of biometric data and employment information from its users, citing purposes related to safety, security, and identification.
Bloomberg: X Plans to Collect Biometric Data, Job and School History
Tesco to offer staff body-worn cameras amid rise in attacks
Tesco will provide body cameras to its frontline workers due to a significant increase in verbal and physical attacks. Tesco's CEO expressed concern over the rise in assaults and called for a change in the law to make abuse or violence towards retail workers a UK-wide offence.
Sky News: Tesco staff offered body cameras following rise in assaults
The Independent: Tesco workers offered body cameras as violent attacks against employees soar
Indian government compel telecoms to install surveillance "backdoors"
The Indian government has mandated all telecom companies to install surveillance systems that provide access to communications of targeted individuals. These "backdoors" have attracted global companies that specialise in surveillance technology, raising concerns about privacy and unauthorised access by foreign intelligence agencies and criminals.
The Financial Times: India’s communications ‘backdoor’ attracts surveillance companies
IAPP: Interception monitoring systems create 'backdoor' for government surveillance in India
AI Snippet of the Week
Call of Duty implements AI tool to combat hate speech
The shooter video game Call of Duty has implemented an AI-powered moderation tool called ToxMod to detect hate speech and discriminatory language in real-time during online matches. This tool aims to create a more inclusive and welcoming gaming environment, addressing the longstanding problem of toxic voice chat in online video games.
The Verge: Call of Duty will use AI to moderate voice chats
Sky News: Call Of Duty using AI to listen out for hate speech during online matches
Policy Updates
The EU Digital Services Act comes into force
As of August 25th, significant online platforms and search engines must now comply with the EU Digital Services Act (DSA). This landmark legislation aims to combat hate speech and disinformation online and compels major tech companies to combat toxic content and improve transparency on their platforms.
Politico: Europe’s online content law has teeth — now it has to bite
Euractiv: EU Digital Services Act: Challenges remain as enforcement begins
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