Meta Accused of Eavesdropping via Facebook App Microphones
A leaked investor pitch deck revealed that Cox Media Group (CMG), a marketing firm associated with Facebook and Google, uses AI-powered “Active Listening” software to capture real-time voice data from smartphone microphones. This voice data, combined with behavioral information, enables hyper-targeted advertising. Following the disclosure, Google removed CMG from its Partners Program, and Meta began reviewing whether CMG violated its terms. CMG claims the practice is legal and embedded within fine-print app terms and conditions.
Over 26 Billion Credentials Exposed in Massive Password Leak
Cybernews researchers uncovered 30 temporarily exposed datasets containing about 16 billion login credentials—collected from infostealer malware and previous breaches, covering platforms like Google, Apple, Facebook, GitHub, Telegram, and even government services. Despite the large scope, the origin remains unknown and probably involves recycled data. Experts warn this “blueprint for mass exploitation” increases threats such as identity theft, phishing, and account takeover, urging immediate use of multifactor authentication, password managers, and strong credential practices.
European Commission Overview on EU Data Regulation & Sovereignty
The article outlines the EU’s privacy framework governing website tracking, highlighting two core laws: the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)—enacted May 25, 2018—and the ePrivacy Directive (commonly referred to as the “EU cookie law”). Together, they impose strict requirements: clear user consent must be obtained before using non-essential cookies, users must be fully informed of their purpose and given the ability to accept or refuse them.
Springer Research: A Digital Ethics Framework for Public Institutions
This paper examines how ethics are addressed in recent European data and digital technology governance. Analyzing eight European Commission policy and regulatory documents, the authors assess the explicit inclusion of ethical concerns, underlying justifications, promoted principles, and recommended implementation strategies. Findings indicate that EU data governance is ethically grounded—rooted in human rights, awareness of societal risks, and long‑standing principles now codified into law. Nevertheless, practical guidance on resolving conflicts among these principles remains insufficient
African Internet Rights Report: Digital Privacy Under Attack
Southern Africa Digital Rights – Issue 1: Data and Online Privacy Under Attack,” published July 30, 2022 (updated October 10, 2024), is a regional digest spotlighting threats to digital rights across Botswana, Eswatini, Malawi, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Civil society voices reveal how measures such as intrusive cyber laws, SIM‑card registration mandates, data‑retention rules, and arrests undermine privacy and suppress online expression. Produced by APC and Namibia Media Trust under AfDec’s human‑rights‑centred project, it underscores ongoing resistance against escalating digital repression
