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February 27, 2023

Encrypted message app Signal in privacy row over Online Safety Bill

  • The head of ‘Signal’ has threatened to pull the messaging app from Britain if the Online Safety Bill becomes law.
  • Signal uses end-to-end encryption, therefore only users know the contents of their messages.
  • However, the Online Safety Bill would allow companies to introduce technology which scans messages to detect and remove child abuse and terrorism.
  • Failure to comply with the Online Safety Bill would result in a fine of up to 10 percent of worldwide company revenue.
  • The NSPCC would like companies to invest in technology which would protect privacy yet identify abuse, given that private messaging apps are the “front line of child sexual abuse.”
  • This has resulted in great concern among many Signal users who rely on the “end-to-end” encryption to communicate in a safe manner.
  • For more on this story, please visit the Times website.

Cost of living crisis creating opportunities for fraudsters, experts warn.

  • Internet safety experts are warning shoppers that sophisticated websites and profiles could lure budgeting shoppers into making unsafe purchases.
  • Research By Get Safe Online highlighted that 3 in 10 people have noticed an increase in fake websites and sellers.
  • Fraud is committed by highly skilled and organised people who use resources to give the appearance of a legitimate company.
  • Internet scams can be hard to spot and falling for purchasing scams is easier than you may realise.
  • For more on this story, please visit the Independent’s website.

UK Officials call for TikTok ban after new EU restrictions

  • The UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is under pressure to ban Chinese-owned social media platform TikTok, from being used on Government issued devices.
  • Last week, EU officials asked Government employees to remove the app from their devices amid cybersecurity concerns.
  • There is a growing fear that the social media platform’s data is being accessed by Beijing.
  • In the US, TikTok is currently banned on Government phones in 26 states.
  • The question is, when does this concern extend from government officials to the public.
  • For more on this story, please visit Social Media Today’s website.