Google is facing a new antitrust case in India in which the US tech giant is alleged to have abused its Android operating system's position in the smart television market. Watch report.

Google faces new antitrust case in India over abuse in smart TVs market

Alphabet Inc's Google is facing a new antitrust case in India in which the U.S. tech giant is alleged to have abused its Android operating system's position in the smart television market, a source and two lawyers involved in the case told Reuters.

The case is Google's fourth major antitrust challenge in India, one of its key markets where it is currently facing public criticism from local startups for enforcing certain policies and company charges they contend hurt their growth.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-to-pay-usd-1-billion-to-news-publishers-for-their-content-331748">Google to pay USD 1 billion to news publishers for their content</a>

It also comes as Google faces new antitrust challenges in the United States, and a potential antitrust probe in China that is set to look into how it allegedly uses its dominance of its Android mobile operating system to stifle competition. Google has denied any wrongdoing.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has since June been looking into allegations that Google engages in anti-competitive practices by creating barriers for firms wanting to use or develop modified versions of Android for smart TVs, such as Amazon Fire TV's operating system, according to the source, who has direct knowledge of the case.

The case has been filed by two Indian antitrust lawyers, Kshitiz Arya and Purushottam Anand. They both confirmed the case filing against Google for alleged abuse in the smart television market, but declined to comment further.

The source said the CCI had directed Google to submit its written responses to the allegations and that the company has sought more time.

A Google spokesman declined comment, since the case with the antitrust body was pending. Amazon and the CCI did not respond to requests for comment.

Unlike Indian court cases, filings and details of cases reviewed by the CCI are not disclosed publicly.

The antitrust watchdog could order a wider investigation against Google if it finds merit in the allegations, or throw out the case completely.

Smart TVs, or WiFi-enabled TVs with apps for streaming services like Netflix and YouTube, have become increasingly popular in India.

Data from Counterpoint Research shows 8 million smart TV sets were sold in India in 2019. Three in five smart TVs sold in India are based on Google's Android system, which also powers nearly 99% of India's half a billion smartphone user base.

The latest case alleges that Google's agreements with companies such as Xiaomi and TV manufacturer TCL India effectively stop them from using both the Android system and a modified version of it on different devices they make, according to the source.

For example, if a company sells smartphones based on Google's Android, it cannot sell smart TVs running on competing platforms like the Amazon Fire TV system, according to the case against the Mountain View, California-based company, the source said.

And in reverse, if a company's smart TV is using Amazon's Fire operating system, then that company is restricted from offering Google's popular Play Store or the Google maps app on its smartphones.

Xiaomi India and TCL India, which is part of China's TCL Technology Group Corp, are both party to the case along with Google. Xiaomi did not respond to requests for comment while TCL declined to comment.

In 2018, the CCI fined Google 1.36 billion rupees($18.5 million) for "search bias," but a company appeal against that is pending. The CCI last year also started probing Google for allegedly misusing its dominant position to reduce the ability of smartphone makers to opt for alternate versions of its Android system.

Earlier this year, the CCI started reviewing a case alleging that Google abuses its market position to unfairly promote its mobile payments app in the country.

Alphabet Inc's Google is facing a new antitrust case in India in which the U.S. tech giant is alleged to have abused its Android operating system's position in the smart television market, a source and two lawyers involved in the case told Reuters.

Alphabet Inc's Google is facing a new antitrust case in India in which the U.S. tech giant is alleged to have abused its Android operating system's position in the smart television market, a source and two lawyers involved in the case told Reuters. The case is Google's fourth major antitrust challenge in India, one of its key markets where it is currently facing public criticism from local startups for enforcing certain policies and company charges they contend hurt their growth. Also read | Google to pay USD 1 billion to news publishers for their content It also comes as Google faces new antitrust challenges in the United States, and a potential antitrust probe in China that is set to look into how it allegedly uses its dominance of its Android mobile operating system to stifle competition. Google has denied any wrongdoing. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has since June been looking into allegations that Google engages in anti-competitive practices by creating barriers for firms wanting to use or develop modified versions of Android for smart TVs, such as Amazon Fire TV's operating system, according to the source, who has direct knowledge of the case. The case has been filed by two Indian antitrust lawyers, Kshitiz Arya and Purushottam Anand. They both confirmed the case filing against Google for alleged abuse in the smart television market, but declined to comment further. The source said the CCI had directed Google to submit its written responses to the allegations and that the company has sought more time. A Google spokesman declined comment, since the case with the antitrust body was pending. Amazon and the CCI did not respond to requests for comment. Unlike Indian court cases, filings and details of cases reviewed by the CCI are not disclosed publicly. The antitrust watchdog could order a wider investigation against Google if it finds merit in the allegations, or throw out the case completely. Smart TVs, or WiFi-enabled TVs with apps for streaming services like Netflix and YouTube, have become increasingly popular in India. Data from Counterpoint Research shows 8 million smart TV sets were sold in India in 2019. Three in five smart TVs sold in India are based on Google's Android system, which also powers nearly 99% of India's half a billion smartphone user base. The latest case alleges that Google's agreements with companies such as Xiaomi and TV manufacturer TCL India effectively stop them from using both the Android system and a modified version of it on different devices they make, according to the source. For example, if a company sells smartphones based on Google's Android, it cannot sell smart TVs running on competing platforms like the Amazon Fire TV system, according to the case against the Mountain View, California-based company, the source said. And in reverse, if a company's smart TV is using Amazon's Fire operating system, then that company is restricted from offering Google's popular Play Store or the Google maps app on its smartphones. Xiaomi India and TCL India, which is part of China's TCL Technology Group Corp, are both party to the case along with Google. Xiaomi did not respond to requests for comment while TCL declined to comment. In 2018, the CCI fined Google 1.36 billion rupees($18.5 million) for "search bias," but a company appeal against that is pending. The CCI last year also started probing Google for allegedly misusing its dominant position to reduce the ability of smartphone makers to opt for alternate versions of its Android system. Earlier this year, the CCI started reviewing a case alleging that Google abuses its market position to unfairly promote its mobile payments app in the country.

Google faces new antitrust case in India over abuse in smart TVs market: Sources

Chinese search engine Sogou would be taken private by tech giant Tencent -- in a deal that values the US-listed firm at around $3.5 billion.

Sohu.com, which is Sogou's parent company, said in a statement that the purchase price will be at $9 per share.

The announcement comes a day after Chinese internet giant Sina Corp, parent company of the country's Twitter-like platform Weibo, said it would be taken private.

A growing number of Chinese companies have delisted from the US or opted for secondary, domestic listings as the world's two superpowers butt heads over a number of issues including technology, Hong Kong and the virus.

This represents a premium of approximately 56.5 per cent to the closing trading price of Sogou on July 24, when the company&nbsp;announced it had received a proposal on going private from Tencent.&nbsp;

If the share purchase is completed, Sohu's subsidiary Sohu.com (Search) will receive an aggregate consideration of around $1.18 billion in cash, and Sohu will no longer have any beneficial ownership interest in Sogou.

Chinese search engine Sogou would be taken private by tech giant Tencent -- in a deal that values the US-listed firm at around $3.5 billion. Sohu.com, which is Sogou's parent company, said in a statement that the purchase price will be at $9 per share.

Chinese search engine Sogou would be taken private by tech giant Tencent -- in a deal that values the US-listed firm at around $3.5 billion. Sohu.com, which is Sogou's parent company, said in a statement that the purchase price will be at $9 per share. The announcement comes a day after Chinese internet giant Sina Corp, parent company of the country's Twitter-like platform Weibo, said it would be taken private. A growing number of Chinese companies have delisted from the US or opted for secondary, domestic listings as the world's two superpowers butt heads over a number of issues including technology, Hong Kong and the virus. This represents a premium of approximately 56.5 per cent to the closing trading price of Sogou on July 24, when the company announced it had received a proposal on going private from Tencent. If the share purchase is completed, Sohu's subsidiary Sohu.com (Search) will receive an aggregate consideration of around $1.18 billion in cash, and Sohu will no longer have any beneficial ownership interest in Sogou.

China search engine Sogou to be taken private by Tencent

Alphabet Inc`s&nbsp;Google will block election ads on its platform after the U.S. election on Nov. 3, a company spokeswoman said on Friday.

Axios, which first reported&nbsp;the news, said Google mailed advertisers saying they will not be able to run ads "referencing candidates, the election, or its outcome, given that an unprecedented amount of votes will be counted after election day this year."

Social media companies have been facing growing pressure to stop carrying ads that spread false information and could steer election results.

Facebook Inc&nbsp;also said it would stop accepting new political ads in the week before the election and would reject ads that seek to claim victory before the results of the election are declared.

Twitter Inc&nbsp;banned political ads last year, while Google has previously limited the ways election advertisers could micro-target voters.

Google`s new policy will target ads that are explicitly election-related as well as any other types of ads that reference federal or state elections, or ads that run based on targeting election-related search queries, the Axios report said.

Alphabet Inc`s Google will block election ads on its platform after the U.S. election on Nov. 3, a company spokeswoman said on Friday. Axios, which first reported the news, said Google mailed advertisers saying they will not be able to run ads "referencing candidates, the election, or its outcome, given that an unprecedented amount of votes will be counted after election day this year.

Alphabet Inc`s Google will block election ads on its platform after the U.S. election on Nov. 3, a company spokeswoman said on Friday. Axios, which first reported the news, said Google mailed advertisers saying they will not be able to run ads "referencing candidates, the election, or its outcome, given that an unprecedented amount of votes will be counted after election day this year." Social media companies have been facing growing pressure to stop carrying ads that spread false information and could steer election results. Facebook Inc also said it would stop accepting new political ads in the week before the election and would reject ads that seek to claim victory before the results of the election are declared. Twitter Inc banned political ads last year, while Google has previously limited the ways election advertisers could micro-target voters. Google`s new policy will target ads that are explicitly election-related as well as any other types of ads that reference federal or state elections, or ads that run based on targeting election-related search queries, the Axios report said.

Google to block election ads after US presidential election

Alphabet on Friday announced moves to address sexual misconduct at Google and its other operating divisions, putting in place changes worked out to settle a lawsuit filed by shareholders.

Under terms of the settlement, the internet giant will spend $310 million on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and let employees use courts instead of private arbitration to resolve disputes over treatment.

"Over the past several years, we have been taking a harder line on inappropriate conduct, and have worked to provide better support to the people who report it," Alphabet vice president Eileen Naughton said in an email to workers.

"Protecting our workplace and culture means getting both of these things right, and in recent years we've worked hard to set and uphold higher standards for the whole company."

Shareholders filed a lawsuit against Alphabet early last year, not long after thousands of Google employees joined a coordinated worldwide walkout to protest the US tech giant's handling of sexual harassment.

The company has since implement policy changes and other steps to address concerns.

A practice instituted after the protests of not giving severance packages to executives fired for misconduct will be expanded to include those being looked at in pending investigations of sexual misconduct or retaliation claims, according to the settlement.

The shareholder lawsuit argued that Alphabet's board and senior executives improperly awarded multi-million-dollar severance packages to several male executives accused of sexually harassing female employees, even after internal investigations found accusations to be credible.

The suit cited a $90 million severance package given to Andy Rubin, considered the "father of Android" for his role in the creation of the widely used mobile operating system backed by Google.

The suit said that an internal investigation confirmed sexual harassment allegations against Rubin, who has consistently denied doing anything inappropriate.

Some demonstrators who streamed across the Mountain View campus during the walkout in late 2018 waved signs bearing messages such as "Happy to quit for $90 million -- no sexual harassment required."

The protest took shape after Google said that it had fired 48 employees in the previous two years -- including 13 senior executives -- as a result of allegations of sexual misconduct.

The concerns at Google were part of a chorus of voices denouncing the existence of a sexist culture in male-dominated Silicon Valley.

In the email to employees, Naughton said Alphabet is setting up a diversity, equality and inclusion advisory council that will include members from outside the company, and outlined guiding principles being instituted.

Changes included refining Alphabet's policy about excessive drinking of alcohol at work-related events to curb chances of inappropriate behavior.

The settlement includes Google and Alphabet's "Other Bets" divisions which include the Waymo autonomous car unit and Verily life sciences initiative, among others.

Alphabet on Friday announced moves to address sexual misconduct at Google and its other operating divisions, putting in place changes worked out to settle a lawsuit filed by shareholders.

Alphabet on Friday announced moves to address sexual misconduct at Google and its other operating divisions, putting in place changes worked out to settle a lawsuit filed by shareholders. Under terms of the settlement, the internet giant will spend $310 million on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and let employees use courts instead of private arbitration to resolve disputes over treatment. "Over the past several years, we have been taking a harder line on inappropriate conduct, and have worked to provide better support to the people who report it," Alphabet vice president Eileen Naughton said in an email to workers. "Protecting our workplace and culture means getting both of these things right, and in recent years we've worked hard to set and uphold higher standards for the whole company." Shareholders filed a lawsuit against Alphabet early last year, not long after thousands of Google employees joined a coordinated worldwide walkout to protest the US tech giant's handling of sexual harassment. The company has since implement policy changes and other steps to address concerns. A practice instituted after the protests of not giving severance packages to executives fired for misconduct will be expanded to include those being looked at in pending investigations of sexual misconduct or retaliation claims, according to the settlement. The shareholder lawsuit argued that Alphabet's board and senior executives improperly awarded multi-million-dollar severance packages to several male executives accused of sexually harassing female employees, even after internal investigations found accusations to be credible. The suit cited a $90 million severance package given to Andy Rubin, considered the "father of Android" for his role in the creation of the widely used mobile operating system backed by Google. The suit said that an internal investigation confirmed sexual harassment allegations against Rubin, who has consistently denied doing anything inappropriate. Some demonstrators who streamed across the Mountain View campus during the walkout in late 2018 waved signs bearing messages such as "Happy to quit for $90 million -- no sexual harassment required." The protest took shape after Google said that it had fired 48 employees in the previous two years -- including 13 senior executives -- as a result of allegations of sexual misconduct. The concerns at Google were part of a chorus of voices denouncing the existence of a sexist culture in male-dominated Silicon Valley. In the email to employees, Naughton said Alphabet is setting up a diversity, equality and inclusion advisory council that will include members from outside the company, and outlined guiding principles being instituted. Changes included refining Alphabet's policy about excessive drinking of alcohol at work-related events to curb chances of inappropriate behavior. The settlement includes Google and Alphabet's "Other Bets" divisions which include the Waymo autonomous car unit and Verily life sciences initiative, among others.

Google parent Alphabet settles sexual misconduct lawsuit

Google Playstore has removed the payments app 'Paytm' for alleged "unregulated gambling”. Paytm said its users' money is "completely safe". Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Google says Paytm cricket app violates its policy, Paytm removed from play store

Google removes Paytm app from Playstore due to guidelines violation

Payment app Paytm has been mysteriously taken down from Google Play Store. The app, owned by One97 Communications Ltd, is not visible on Google Play Store for now.

All other apps under its umbrella -- Paytm For Business, Paytm Money, and Paytm Mall -- are, however, are available on Play Store.

The Paytm app is still available for download on the Apple App Store.

To this end, Paytm in a statement on Twitter said, "Paytm Android app is temporarily unavailable on Google's Play Store for new downloads or updates. It will be back very soon. All your money is completely safe, and you can continue to enjoy your Paytm app as normal."

Paytm disappeared from Google Play Store a few hours after Google’s Suzanne Frey, who is Vice President, Product, Android Security and Privacy, posted a blog, detailing a few guidelines.

“We have these policies to protect users from potential harm. When an app violates these policies, we notify the developer of the violation and remove the app from Google Play until the developer brings the app into compliance. And in the case where there are repeated policy violations, we may take more serious action which may include terminating Google Play Developer accounts. Our policies are applied and enforced on all developers consistently,” she wrote.

"We have the same goals for our gambling policy. We don’t allow online casinos or support any unregulated gambling apps that facilitate sports betting. This includes if an app leads consumers to an external website that allows them to participate in paid tournaments to win real money or cash prizes, it is a violation of our policies," wrote Suzanne.

This is being linked to the removal of the app.

One97 Communications Ltd was founded by Vijay Shekhar Sharma. The company had received massive funding from fintech firm Ant Financials, which is an ally of China's Alibaba group.

Payment app Paytm has been mysteriously taken down from Google Play Store. The app, owned by One97 Communications Ltd, is not visible on Google Play Store for now.

Payment app Paytm has been mysteriously taken down from Google Play Store. The app, owned by One97 Communications Ltd, is not visible on Google Play Store for now. All other apps under its umbrella -- Paytm For Business, Paytm Money, and Paytm Mall -- are, however, are available on Play Store. The Paytm app is still available for download on the Apple App Store. To this end, Paytm in a statement on Twitter said, "Paytm Android app is temporarily unavailable on Google's Play Store for new downloads or updates. It will be back very soon. All your money is completely safe, and you can continue to enjoy your Paytm app as normal." Paytm disappeared from Google Play Store a few hours after Google’s Suzanne Frey, who is Vice President, Product, Android Security and Privacy, posted a blog, detailing a few guidelines. “We have these policies to protect users from potential harm. When an app violates these policies, we notify the developer of the violation and remove the app from Google Play until the developer brings the app into compliance. And in the case where there are repeated policy violations, we may take more serious action which may include terminating Google Play Developer accounts. Our policies are applied and enforced on all developers consistently,” she wrote. "We have the same goals for our gambling policy. We don’t allow online casinos or support any unregulated gambling apps that facilitate sports betting. This includes if an app leads consumers to an external website that allows them to participate in paid tournaments to win real money or cash prizes, it is a violation of our policies," wrote Suzanne. This is being linked to the removal of the app. One97 Communications Ltd was founded by Vijay Shekhar Sharma. The company had received massive funding from fintech firm Ant Financials, which is an ally of China's Alibaba group.

Paytm app removed from Google Play Store. Is alleged violation of guidelines the reason?

Alphabet Inc's Google aims to power its data centers and offices solely with renewable energy by 2030, its chief executive told Reuters, becoming the biggest company in the world to commit to ditching coal and natural gas power.

The "stretch goal," as CEO Sundar Pichai described it, will force Google to move beyond the tech industry norm of offseting carbon emissions from electricity use and require technological and political breakthroughs to achieve.

"The problem is so immense, many of us need to lead the way and show solutions," Pichai said. "We’re one small player in this but we can set an example."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/google-rallies-youtubers-against-australian-news-payment-plan-321465" hreflang="en">Google rallies YouTubers against Australian news payment plan</a>

Wildfires burning a record area in the western United States this month have increased public awareness of climate change, Pichai said, and Google wants to bring further attention through its new goal as well as product features.

Wind, solar and other renewable sources accounted for 61% of Google's global hourly electricity usage last year. The proportion varied by facility, with carbon-free sources fulfilling 96% of hourly power needs at Google's wind-swept Oklahoma data center compared with 3% at its gas-reliant Singapore operation.

But Google, which consumes slightly more power annually worldwide than residents and businesses in Delaware, has grown optimistic that it can bridge the gap with batteries to store solar power overnight, emerging sources such as geothermal reservoirs and better management of power needs.

"To plan 24/7 hourly being carbon-free in our data centers and campuses around the world, we see an enormous logistics challenge, which is why we've been hard at work modeling the last year how to get there," Pichai said. "And we feel confident we can get there by 2030."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/tiktok-tracked-android-devices-in-direct-violation-of-googles-policy-319880" hreflang="en">TikTok tracked Android devices in direct violation of Google's policy</a>

He declined to share the likely cost of achieving the goal.

Big Google rivals including Microsoft Corp and Amazon.com Inc have targeted removing more carbon from the atmosphere than they emit over the coming decades, but none of them have publicly set a goal to stop sourcing carbon-based energy.

But the companies share a common goal of catalyzing businesses and governments to curb climate pollution before 2030, when scientists say global warming could become catastrophic if unchecked.

Jennifer Layke, global director at research group World Resources Institute, which has received Google funding, said the company inspired others in the United States and Europe over the last decade but its efforts must now spur action in crucial polluting regions such as China, India, Indonesia and Vietnam.

"If we can't shift from carbon, we will suffer the firestorms and the droughts," she said.

Google has been carbon-neutral since 2007, meaning it has planted trees, bought carbon credits and funded large amounts of wind power in places where it is abundant to offset its tapping of coal and natural gas power in other regions. It also said Monday that its estimated 1 million metric tons of emissions between 2006 and its 1998 launch now have been offset.

The company's new goals include bringing 5 gigawatts of renewable energy near some suppliers, funding tree planting beyond its offset needs and sharing data or forging partnerships with 500 governments around the world to try to cut 1 gigaton of carbon emissions annually by 2030.

Google said it would continue to offset carbon emissions unrelated to electricity use, such as from employee travel.

Its carbon-free electricity goal satisfies one demand of 2,000 Google employees who last November petitioned the company to stop selling data storage and other cloud computing tools to oil companies.

Pichai said the company would continue to "support everyone" with its cloud services and help oil and gas companies transition to tapping other sources.

Alphabet Inc's Google aims to power its data centers and offices solely with renewable energy by 2030, its chief executive told Reuters, becoming the biggest company in the world to commit to ditching coal and natural gas power.

Alphabet Inc's Google aims to power its data centers and offices solely with renewable energy by 2030, its chief executive told Reuters, becoming the biggest company in the world to commit to ditching coal and natural gas power. The "stretch goal," as CEO Sundar Pichai described it, will force Google to move beyond the tech industry norm of offseting carbon emissions from electricity use and require technological and political breakthroughs to achieve. "The problem is so immense, many of us need to lead the way and show solutions," Pichai said. "We’re one small player in this but we can set an example." Also read: Google rallies YouTubers against Australian news payment plan Wildfires burning a record area in the western United States this month have increased public awareness of climate change, Pichai said, and Google wants to bring further attention through its new goal as well as product features. Wind, solar and other renewable sources accounted for 61% of Google's global hourly electricity usage last year. The proportion varied by facility, with carbon-free sources fulfilling 96% of hourly power needs at Google's wind-swept Oklahoma data center compared with 3% at its gas-reliant Singapore operation. But Google, which consumes slightly more power annually worldwide than residents and businesses in Delaware, has grown optimistic that it can bridge the gap with batteries to store solar power overnight, emerging sources such as geothermal reservoirs and better management of power needs. "To plan 24/7 hourly being carbon-free in our data centers and campuses around the world, we see an enormous logistics challenge, which is why we've been hard at work modeling the last year how to get there," Pichai said. "And we feel confident we can get there by 2030." Also read: TikTok tracked Android devices in direct violation of Google's policy He declined to share the likely cost of achieving the goal. Big Google rivals including Microsoft Corp and Amazon.com Inc have targeted removing more carbon from the atmosphere than they emit over the coming decades, but none of them have publicly set a goal to stop sourcing carbon-based energy. But the companies share a common goal of catalyzing businesses and governments to curb climate pollution before 2030, when scientists say global warming could become catastrophic if unchecked. Jennifer Layke, global director at research group World Resources Institute, which has received Google funding, said the company inspired others in the United States and Europe over the last decade but its efforts must now spur action in crucial polluting regions such as China, India, Indonesia and Vietnam. "If we can't shift from carbon, we will suffer the firestorms and the droughts," she said. Google has been carbon-neutral since 2007, meaning it has planted trees, bought carbon credits and funded large amounts of wind power in places where it is abundant to offset its tapping of coal and natural gas power in other regions. It also said Monday that its estimated 1 million metric tons of emissions between 2006 and its 1998 launch now have been offset. The company's new goals include bringing 5 gigawatts of renewable energy near some suppliers, funding tree planting beyond its offset needs and sharing data or forging partnerships with 500 governments around the world to try to cut 1 gigaton of carbon emissions annually by 2030. Google said it would continue to offset carbon emissions unrelated to electricity use, such as from employee travel. Its carbon-free electricity goal satisfies one demand of 2,000 Google employees who last November petitioned the company to stop selling data storage and other cloud computing tools to oil companies. Pichai said the company would continue to "support everyone" with its cloud services and help oil and gas companies transition to tapping other sources.

Google sets unprecedented goal to tap only renewable power by 2030

Italy's antitrust authority said on Monday it had opened an inquiry into Google Inc, Apple Inc and Dropbox Inc over cloud computing services.

"The proceedings relate to alleged improper commercial practices and the possible inclusion of unfair clauses in contract conditions," the authority said in a statement.

(More details awaited)

Italy's antitrust authority said on Monday it had opened an inquiry into Google Inc, Apple Inc and Dropbox Inc over cloud computing services. "The proceedings relate to alleged improper commercial practices and the possible inclusion of unfair clauses in contract conditions," the authority said in a statement.

Italy's antitrust authority said on Monday it had opened an inquiry into Google Inc, Apple Inc and Dropbox Inc over cloud computing services. "The proceedings relate to alleged improper commercial practices and the possible inclusion of unfair clauses in contract conditions," the authority said in a statement. (More details awaited)

Italy antitrust opens inquiry into Google, Apple, Dropbox on cloud computing

Facebook Inc said it will block news sharing on its platforms in Australia if the government goes ahead with a law to force it, and Alphabet Inc`s Google, to pay local media outlets for featuring their content on its platforms.

The matter is being watched closely around the world as it represents the biggest challenge so far to the way the U.S. tech giants use news on some of the world`s biggest websites.

WHAT DOES THE PROPOSED LEGISLATION SAY?

<ul>
	<li>The draft law states that Australian news outlets can negotiate individually or collectively with Facebook and Google over payment for content used on the tech firms` sites. Other tech firms may be added if they are deemed big enough.</li>
	<li>If the parties cannot reach an agreement, an arbitrator will decide whose offer is more reasonable. If Facebook or Google break any resulting agreements, they can be fined up to A$10 million ($7.4 million) in civil penalties.</li>
	<li>The draft also requires tech firms give media outlets notice when they change search algorithms in a way affecting the order in which content appears. They must also share their use of consumer data extracted from news content on their sites.</li>
	<li>The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission began investigating "big tech" in 2017 and sought feedback on the draft until Aug. 28. It now hopes to work with government and industry to redraft the law before it goes before parliament.</li>
	<li>While internet and media companies have battled in other jurisdictions - notably in Germany over copyright of news snippets and other items published by Google - Australia`s proposal represents the most expansive reform.</li>
</ul>

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/facebook-to-conduct-research-on-its-impact-on-us-elections-324424">Facebook to conduct research on its impact on US elections</a> 
&nbsp;

WHY WAS THE LAW PROPOSED?

<ul>
	<li>In recent years, traditional media companies operating in Australia have suffered huge hits to income streams, such as subscriptions and advertising. For every A$100 spent on online advertising in Australia, excluding classifieds, nearly a third goes to Google and Facebook, the competition regulator has said.</li>
	<li>Last year, the regulator published a report stating news outlets lacked bargaining power when negotiating with digital firms over compensation for content posted on online platforms. It said this was a problem because those same publishers relied on Facebook and Google to reach many of their consumers.</li>
	<li>The government wanted the tech giants to abide by a voluntary code. Citing lack of progress in discussions, it decided earlier this year that legislation was necessary.</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

WHAT HAS THE RESPONSE BEEN?

<ul>
	<li>The local arm of News Corp is a vocal supporter of the legislation. It partly blamed the tech companies for the closure of dozens of mastheads earlier this year.</li>
	<li>Facebook and Google said they help connect media outlets with consumers, boosting their subscriptions and enabling them to charge advertisers more. Facebook said in the first five months of 2020 it sent 2.3 billion "clicks" worth about A$200 million to Australian news websites via articles appearing on Facebook users` pages. Google has said it would pay for content, though no major media organisation has agreed to its terms.</li>
	<li>Australia has previously engaged in lengthy battles with major corporations. In 2012, the then centre-left government became the first in the world to prohibit cigarette companies from using designs on their packaging to attract consumers. Tobacco companies mounted legal challenges but the courts ultimately upheld the law.</li>
</ul>

($1 = 1.3501 Australian dollars) 
&nbsp;

Facebook Inc said it will block news sharing on its platforms in Australia if the government goes ahead with a law to force it, and Alphabet Inc`s Google, to pay local media outlets for featuring their content on its platforms.

Facebook Inc said it will block news sharing on its platforms in Australia if the government goes ahead with a law to force it, and Alphabet Inc`s Google, to pay local media outlets for featuring their content on its platforms. The matter is being watched closely around the world as it represents the biggest challenge so far to the way the U.S. tech giants use news on some of the world`s biggest websites. WHAT DOES THE PROPOSED LEGISLATION SAY? The draft law states that Australian news outlets can negotiate individually or collectively with Facebook and Google over payment for content used on the tech firms` sites. Other tech firms may be added if they are deemed big enough. If the parties cannot reach an agreement, an arbitrator will decide whose offer is more reasonable. If Facebook or Google break any resulting agreements, they can be fined up to A$10 million ($7.4 million) in civil penalties. The draft also requires tech firms give media outlets notice when they change search algorithms in a way affecting the order in which content appears. They must also share their use of consumer data extracted from news content on their sites. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission began investigating "big tech" in 2017 and sought feedback on the draft until Aug. 28. It now hopes to work with government and industry to redraft the law before it goes before parliament. While internet and media companies have battled in other jurisdictions - notably in Germany over copyright of news snippets and other items published by Google - Australia`s proposal represents the most expansive reform. Also Read: Facebook to conduct research on its impact on US elections WHY WAS THE LAW PROPOSED? In recent years, traditional media companies operating in Australia have suffered huge hits to income streams, such as subscriptions and advertising. For every A$100 spent on online advertising in Australia, excluding classifieds, nearly a third goes to Google and Facebook, the competition regulator has said. Last year, the regulator published a report stating news outlets lacked bargaining power when negotiating with digital firms over compensation for content posted on online platforms. It said this was a problem because those same publishers relied on Facebook and Google to reach many of their consumers. The government wanted the tech giants to abide by a voluntary code. Citing lack of progress in discussions, it decided earlier this year that legislation was necessary. WHAT HAS THE RESPONSE BEEN? The local arm of News Corp is a vocal supporter of the legislation. It partly blamed the tech companies for the closure of dozens of mastheads earlier this year. Facebook and Google said they help connect media outlets with consumers, boosting their subscriptions and enabling them to charge advertisers more. Facebook said in the first five months of 2020 it sent 2.3 billion "clicks" worth about A$200 million to Australian news websites via articles appearing on Facebook users` pages. Google has said it would pay for content, though no major media organisation has agreed to its terms. Australia has previously engaged in lengthy battles with major corporations. In 2012, the then centre-left government became the first in the world to prohibit cigarette companies from using designs on their packaging to attract consumers. Tobacco companies mounted legal challenges but the courts ultimately upheld the law. ($1 = 1.3501 Australian dollars)

Facebook to Australians: Will block news sharing if government passes proposed law

Facebook's French subsidiary has agreed to pay $125 million&nbsp;(106 million euros)&nbsp;in back taxes and penalties following persistent government efforts to get online giants to pay more taxes where they make their money.

The agreement came after French tax authorities carried out an extensive audit of a decade of Facebook's operations in the country, from 2009-2018, a company spokesperson said Monday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-transparent-non-partisan-says-india-head-amid-political-controversy-322267" hreflang="en">Facebook 'transparent, non-partisan', says India head amid political controversy</a>

The&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;spokesman did not elaborate further on the details of the agreement. France's tax administration also did not give more details.

Facebook's spokesman also said that since 2018 the company had decided to include its advertising sales in France in its annual accounts covering France.

As a result,&nbsp;Facebook's total net revenue almost doubled in 2019 from a year earlier to 747 million euros, according to a copy of the company's 2019 annual accounts, filed with France's companies registry.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-denies-plans-to-drop-facebook-tax-322666/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Facebook&nbsp;France, which employs 208 people, refers to the French tax audit report in its 2019 annual accounts, saying it amounted to a tax adjustment of about 105 million euros. This includes a penalty of about 22 million, the annual accounts showed.

France, which is pushing hard to overhaul international tax rules on digital companies such as&nbsp;Facebook, Alphabet's Google, Apple and Amazon, has said the big tech groups pay too little tax in the country where they have significant sales.

Current international tax rules legally allow companies to funnel sales generated in local markets in Europe to their regional headquarters. Some of the tech companies, including&nbsp;Facebook, have European or international headquarters based in countries with comparatively low corporate tax rates, such as Ireland.

Facebook's French subsidiary has agreed to pay $125 million (106 million euros) in back taxes and penalties following persistent government efforts to get online giants to pay more taxes where they make their money.

Facebook's French subsidiary has agreed to pay $125 million (106 million euros) in back taxes and penalties following persistent government efforts to get online giants to pay more taxes where they make their money. The agreement came after French tax authorities carried out an extensive audit of a decade of Facebook's operations in the country, from 2009-2018, a company spokesperson said Monday. Also read: Facebook 'transparent, non-partisan', says India head amid political controversy The Facebook spokesman did not elaborate further on the details of the agreement. France's tax administration also did not give more details. Facebook's spokesman also said that since 2018 the company had decided to include its advertising sales in France in its annual accounts covering France. As a result, Facebook's total net revenue almost doubled in 2019 from a year earlier to 747 million euros, according to a copy of the company's 2019 annual accounts, filed with France's companies registry. Facebook France, which employs 208 people, refers to the French tax audit report in its 2019 annual accounts, saying it amounted to a tax adjustment of about 105 million euros. This includes a penalty of about 22 million, the annual accounts showed. France, which is pushing hard to overhaul international tax rules on digital companies such as Facebook, Alphabet's Google, Apple and Amazon, has said the big tech groups pay too little tax in the country where they have significant sales. Current international tax rules legally allow companies to funnel sales generated in local markets in Europe to their regional headquarters. Some of the tech companies, including Facebook, have European or international headquarters based in countries with comparatively low corporate tax rates, such as Ireland.

Facebook to pay $125 million in back taxes to France

Internet giant Google on Monday criticised proposed Australian antitrust laws, saying its free search service would be "at risk" and users' personal data could be shared if it is made to pay news organisations for their content.

The US-based company's warning, contained in what it called an "Open letter to Australians," comes a week before public consultations close on Australian draft laws that would make both Google and Facebook pay for news siphoned from commercial media companies.

Google said the proposed laws would also help big media companies artificially inflate their search rankings, luring more viewers to their platforms and giving them an unfair advantage over small publishers and users of Google's YouTube streaming website.

The statement, advertised on Google's main search page, marks an escalation of tensions between big tech companies and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) which has called for sweeping changes to rein in how Google and social media titan Facebook Inc use local content and consumer data.

"You've always relied on Google Search and YouTube to show you what's most relevant and helpful to you," Google Australia Managing Director Mel Silva wrote in the open letter.&nbsp;

"We could no longer guarantee that under this law."

The proposed law "wouldn't just impact the way Google and YouTube work with news media businesses - it would impact all of our Australian users" she wrote.

The ACCC accused Google of publishing "misinformation" and said the laws would not require the US company to charge Australians for its services or share any personal data.

The proposed law would "allow Australian news businesses to negotiate for fair payment for their journalists' work that is included on Google services", ACCC chair Rod Sims said in a statement.

"This will address a significant bargaining power imbalance between Australian news media businesses and Google and Facebook," he added.

Google has been battling the Australian consumer watchdog on two fronts. Last month, the watchdog launched court action against Google for allegedly misleading account holders about its use of their personal data.

The commission alleges that Google misled millions of Australians to obtain their consent and expand the scope of personal information that it collects about users' internet activity to target advertising. Google denies the allegations.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Internet giant Google on Monday criticised proposed Australian antitrust laws, saying its free search service would be "at risk" and users' personal data could be shared if it is made to pay news organisations for their content.

Internet giant Google on Monday criticised proposed Australian antitrust laws, saying its free search service would be "at risk" and users' personal data could be shared if it is made to pay news organisations for their content. The US-based company's warning, contained in what it called an "Open letter to Australians," comes a week before public consultations close on Australian draft laws that would make both Google and Facebook pay for news siphoned from commercial media companies. Google said the proposed laws would also help big media companies artificially inflate their search rankings, luring more viewers to their platforms and giving them an unfair advantage over small publishers and users of Google's YouTube streaming website. The statement, advertised on Google's main search page, marks an escalation of tensions between big tech companies and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) which has called for sweeping changes to rein in how Google and social media titan Facebook Inc use local content and consumer data. "You've always relied on Google Search and YouTube to show you what's most relevant and helpful to you," Google Australia Managing Director Mel Silva wrote in the open letter. "We could no longer guarantee that under this law." The proposed law "wouldn't just impact the way Google and YouTube work with news media businesses - it would impact all of our Australian users" she wrote. The ACCC accused Google of publishing "misinformation" and said the laws would not require the US company to charge Australians for its services or share any personal data. The proposed law would "allow Australian news businesses to negotiate for fair payment for their journalists' work that is included on Google services", ACCC chair Rod Sims said in a statement. "This will address a significant bargaining power imbalance between Australian news media businesses and Google and Facebook," he added. Google has been battling the Australian consumer watchdog on two fronts. Last month, the watchdog launched court action against Google for allegedly misleading account holders about its use of their personal data. The commission alleges that Google misled millions of Australians to obtain their consent and expand the scope of personal information that it collects about users' internet activity to target advertising. Google denies the allegations. (with inputs from agencies)

Google warns Australia could lose free search services

Google is in the process of testing an android base warning system that will turn your android phone into mini seismographs. Watch report.

Google's new quake alert system will allow android phones to detect quakes

Chinese social media giant TikTok allegedly collected user data to identify&nbsp;and track&nbsp;devices on the Android operating software.

This is in direct&nbsp;violation of Google’s data policies, and reportedly this data logging went on for 15 months.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/us-ban-on-tiktok-could-cut-it-off-from-app-stores-advertisers-319854" hreflang="en">US ban on TikTok could cut it off from app stores, advertisers</a>

The investigation, undertaken by the Wall Street Journal reveals that the company trackers users online by identifying the devices. Additionally, TikTok did not inform the users of this monitoring and no option for opting out of this was given.

Until the app received an update in November 2019, the company had been collecting the MAC addresses from Android devices.

Collecting data banned

Collecting addresses and related data has been banned on Apple and Google for years. But many companies were able to bypass Google’s security measures in place by identifying a loophole. TikTok was among 347 companies who collected such data without user permission.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/china-accuses-us-of-political-manipulation-over-tiktok-wechat-ban-318816" hreflang="en">China accuses US of 'political manipulation' over TikTok, WeChat ban</a>

The report claims that such addresses are stores from gaming applications to curate person specific advertisements.

TikTok is currently facing a global boycott. India became the first country to officially ban the app, after a border skirmish with China, citing a threat to national sovereignty. Following suit, the US has put the application on the spot for its data security loopholes.

TikTok under pressure

Through an executive order, US President Donald Trump has set September 20 as the deadline for the company to sell off its US operations to an American country, after which it may face a blanket ban.

Trump administration had alleged that the company provides user data to the Chinese government, and he fears that the parent company ByteDance could compromise the security of American citizens.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/tiktok-threatens-legal-action-in-us-court-over-trumps-executive-order-318834" hreflang="en">TikTok threatens legal action in US court over Trump's executive order</a>

In response, TikTok had repeatedly denied giving data to the Chinese government, and instead claimed that American companies like Google and Facebook undertake way more data collection than the Chinese company.

Reports suggested that Twitter and Microsoft have both shown interest in acquiring the US operations of TikTok. But ByteDance’s CEO Zhang Yiming has threatened legal action against Trump’s “unreasonable” order.

Chinese social media giant TikTok allegedly collected user data to identify and track devices on the Android operating software. This is in direct violation of Google’s data policies, and reportedly this data logging went on for 15 months.

Chinese social media giant TikTok allegedly collected user data to identify and track devices on the Android operating software. This is in direct violation of Google’s data policies, and reportedly this data logging went on for 15 months. Also read: US ban on TikTok could cut it off from app stores, advertisers The investigation, undertaken by the Wall Street Journal reveals that the company trackers users online by identifying the devices. Additionally, TikTok did not inform the users of this monitoring and no option for opting out of this was given. Until the app received an update in November 2019, the company had been collecting the MAC addresses from Android devices. Collecting data banned Collecting addresses and related data has been banned on Apple and Google for years. But many companies were able to bypass Google’s security measures in place by identifying a loophole. TikTok was among 347 companies who collected such data without user permission. Also read: China accuses US of 'political manipulation' over TikTok, WeChat ban The report claims that such addresses are stores from gaming applications to curate person specific advertisements. TikTok is currently facing a global boycott. India became the first country to officially ban the app, after a border skirmish with China, citing a threat to national sovereignty. Following suit, the US has put the application on the spot for its data security loopholes. TikTok under pressure Through an executive order, US President Donald Trump has set September 20 as the deadline for the company to sell off its US operations to an American country, after which it may face a blanket ban. Trump administration had alleged that the company provides user data to the Chinese government, and he fears that the parent company ByteDance could compromise the security of American citizens. Also read: TikTok threatens legal action in US court over Trump's executive order In response, TikTok had repeatedly denied giving data to the Chinese government, and instead claimed that American companies like Google and Facebook undertake way more data collection than the Chinese company. Reports suggested that Twitter and Microsoft have both shown interest in acquiring the US operations of TikTok. But ByteDance’s CEO Zhang Yiming has threatened legal action against Trump’s “unreasonable” order.

TikTok tracked Android devices in direct violation of Google's policy

58 Indian-origin CEOs account for $1 trillion in revenue, employ over 3.6 million globally

China has been flying high on its spamouflage dragon, a beast of a network used to spam the online world with camouflaged Chinese propaganda.&nbsp;

But now the monster is being crippled as social media giants are pulling out their ammunition.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/over-2500-youtube-channels-linked-to-china-removed-318656">Over 2,500 YouTube channels linked to China removed</a>

Google has deleted 2,500 YouTube channels linked to China, saying they were part of a coordinated influence campaign.&nbsp;

These channels mostly uploaded spammy, non-political content, but a powerful subset posted political messages.&nbsp;

The network used video footage from Chinese government channels, turning up the volume against Hong Kong protests, praising Chinese President Xi Jinping's response to the pandemic, while criticising US President Donald Trump over riots in the US.

In 2019, US lawmakers sounded the alarm and immediately Google suspended 210 YouTube channels.&nbsp;

Twitter and Facebook too joined in to dismantle China's fake news machine.&nbsp;

However, the spamouflage dragon is making a comeback, rearmed and rejuvenated.&nbsp;

Google says the behaviour is similar to the activity spotted by Twitter.&nbsp;

The Chinese government uses amplifier accounts to boost the core message.&nbsp;

Last month, Twitter deleted over 170,000 accounts, which were all spreading deceptive narratives favourable to the Chinese government.&nbsp;

After Facebook, Twitter has gone a step further to weed out China-sponsored propaganda.&nbsp;

Twitter, this time, has aimed at China's state-backed media.

The handles of People's Daily, CGTN, Xinhua News, China News Service, and Global Times can now be seen with a line: China state-affiliated media.&nbsp;

Twitter said people have the right to know when a media account is affiliated directly or indirectly with a state actor.

The social media giant has also put a label on Lijian Zhao, which describes him as China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson.&nbsp;

Twitter has said that it is going to put labels on senior officials and entities that represent the voice of the state abroad.

This applies to all countries that are permanent members of the UN Security Council.&nbsp;

As expected, China has taken offence.&nbsp;

Global Times says Twitter's decision to label Chinese public figures and media is a political move to satisfy Trump.&nbsp;

CGTN is crying foul too.&nbsp;

China is upset because its media and political accounts will lose the teeth to cause any kind of damage.&nbsp;

Tweets from state-linked media accounts will no longer be shown on the home screen, notifications or search.

It's a docile existence that will put the spamouflage dragon to sleep and China is surely wringing its hands as the US election is less than 100 days away.&nbsp;

China has been flying high on its spamouflage dragon, a beast of a network used to spam the online world with camouflaged Chinese propaganda. But now the monster is being crippled as social media giants are pulling out their ammunition.

China has been flying high on its spamouflage dragon, a beast of a network used to spam the online world with camouflaged Chinese propaganda. But now the monster is being crippled as social media giants are pulling out their ammunition. Also read | Over 2,500 YouTube channels linked to China removed Google has deleted 2,500 YouTube channels linked to China, saying they were part of a coordinated influence campaign. These channels mostly uploaded spammy, non-political content, but a powerful subset posted political messages. The network used video footage from Chinese government channels, turning up the volume against Hong Kong protests, praising Chinese President Xi Jinping's response to the pandemic, while criticising US President Donald Trump over riots in the US. In 2019, US lawmakers sounded the alarm and immediately Google suspended 210 YouTube channels. Twitter and Facebook too joined in to dismantle China's fake news machine. However, the spamouflage dragon is making a comeback, rearmed and rejuvenated. Google says the behaviour is similar to the activity spotted by Twitter. The Chinese government uses amplifier accounts to boost the core message. Last month, Twitter deleted over 170,000 accounts, which were all spreading deceptive narratives favourable to the Chinese government. After Facebook, Twitter has gone a step further to weed out China-sponsored propaganda. Twitter, this time, has aimed at China's state-backed media. The handles of People's Daily, CGTN, Xinhua News, China News Service, and Global Times can now be seen with a line: China state-affiliated media. Twitter said people have the right to know when a media account is affiliated directly or indirectly with a state actor. The social media giant has also put a label on Lijian Zhao, which describes him as China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson. Twitter has said that it is going to put labels on senior officials and entities that represent the voice of the state abroad. This applies to all countries that are permanent members of the UN Security Council. As expected, China has taken offence. Global Times says Twitter's decision to label Chinese public figures and media is a political move to satisfy Trump. CGTN is crying foul too. China is upset because its media and political accounts will lose the teeth to cause any kind of damage. Tweets from state-linked media accounts will no longer be shown on the home screen, notifications or search. It's a docile existence that will put the spamouflage dragon to sleep and China is surely wringing its hands as the US election is less than 100 days away.

China cries foul as social media giants crackdown on 'spamouflage' intensifies

Google said it has pulled down over 2,500 YouTube channels linked to China in a bid to combat disinformation spread through the video-sharing platform.&nbsp;

The tech giant said in between April and June, the channels were removed "as part of our ongoing investigation into coordinated influence operations linked to China."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-challenges-youtube-with-licensed-music-videos-317383#:~:text=Facebook%20on%20Friday%20added%20licensed,Sebastian%20Yatra%2C%20and%20other%20artists.">Facebook challenges YouTube with licensed music videos</a>

The content was in general "spammy, non-political" in nature, but certain videos also were related to politics, Google said in a quarterly bulletin on disinformation operations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/youtube-not-liable-for-illegal-copyrighted-works-on-its-platform-eu-court-adviser-says-313759#:~:text=Google%60s%20YouTube%20and%20other,Justice%20adviser%20said%20on%20Thursday.">YouTube not liable for illegal copyrighted works on its platform, EU court adviser says</a>

The Alphabet-owned company did not give information on the name of the channels but said Twitter and social media analytics company Graphika spotted similar activity.

China has so far not commented on the matter and in the past brushed aside any allegations on spreading disinformation campaigns.&nbsp;

The issue of fake news spread by foreign actors has become a major concern for many countries after the 2016 US presidential elections, where a number of accusations were levelled against Russian interference.

Tech giants like Google, Facebook and Twitter have tried to convince countries of the measures they are taking to weed out disinformation and hate-filled propaganda.&nbsp;

The bulletin released also mentioned Iran and Russia in doing similar activities.&nbsp;

Google said it has pulled down over 2,500 YouTube channels linked to China in a bid to combat disinformation spread through the video-sharing platform. The tech giant said in between April and June, the channels were removed "as part of our ongoing investigation into coordinated influence operations linked to China.

Google said it has pulled down over 2,500 YouTube channels linked to China in a bid to combat disinformation spread through the video-sharing platform. The tech giant said in between April and June, the channels were removed "as part of our ongoing investigation into coordinated influence operations linked to China." Also read | Facebook challenges YouTube with licensed music videos The content was in general "spammy, non-political" in nature, but certain videos also were related to politics, Google said in a quarterly bulletin on disinformation operations. Also read | YouTube not liable for illegal copyrighted works on its platform, EU court adviser says The Alphabet-owned company did not give information on the name of the channels but said Twitter and social media analytics company Graphika spotted similar activity. China has so far not commented on the matter and in the past brushed aside any allegations on spreading disinformation campaigns. The issue of fake news spread by foreign actors has become a major concern for many countries after the 2016 US presidential elections, where a number of accusations were levelled against Russian interference. Tech giants like Google, Facebook and Twitter have tried to convince countries of the measures they are taking to weed out disinformation and hate-filled propaganda. The bulletin released also mentioned Iran and Russia in doing similar activities.

Over 2,500 YouTube channels linked to China removed

Corporate amid pandemic: Top 6 companies working from home until 2021 or permanently

Australia on Friday unveiled a draft law to force Google and Facebook to pay news media for their content in a "world-leading" initiative sure to prompt a confrontation with the digital giants.

An unprecedented move by Australia to protect independent journalism

Australia uncovered a draft law on July 31 to force Google and Facebook to pay news media for their content in a "world-leading" initiative sure to prompt a confrontation with the US digital giants. Watch report.

Your Story: Australia brings law forcing tech giants to pay for news

Australia on Friday unveiled a draft law to force Google and Facebook to pay news media for their content in a "world-leading" initiative sure to prompt a confrontation with the digital giants.

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg announced the "mandatory code of conduct" to govern relations between the struggling news industry and the tech firms after 18 months of negotiations failed to bring the two sides together.

In addition to payment for content, the code covers issues like access to user data, transparency of algorithms and ranking of content in the platforms' news feeds and search results.

Frydenberg said legislation implementing the code would be introduced into parliament in the coming weeks and include "substantial penalties" that could cost the tech companies hundreds of millions of dollars.

While the code could eventually apply to any digital platform using Australian news content, Frydenberg said it would initially focus on Facebook and Google, two of the world's richest and most powerful companies.

Australia's initiative has been closely watched around the globe as news media worldwide have suffered in an increasingly digital economy where advertising revenue is overwhelmingly captured by Facebook, Google and other big tech firms.

The news industry crisis has been exacerbated by the economic collapse caused by the coronavirus pandemic, with dozens of Australian newspapers closed and hundreds of journalists sacked in recent months.

Facebook and Google have strongly opposed any move forcing them to share advertising revenue, hinting they could simply boycott Australian media if mandatory payments are imposed.

Frydenberg has said the aim was "not to protect Australian news media&nbsp;businesses from competition, or from&nbsp;disruption that's occurring across&nbsp;this sector" but rather "to create a level playing field to&nbsp;ensure a fair go for Australian news&nbsp;media businesses."

Under the code, drawn up by the Australian anti-trust watchdog ACCC, tech companies will be required to negotiate with news firms "in good faith" over payments for use of their content.

If agreement cannot be reached within three months, the issue will go to binding arbitration to determine the amount of payments.

The code also imposes a range of obligations on the digital platforms including providing advance notice of algorithm changes affecting news ranking and transparency over advertising run against news content.

Violations of the code will draw penalties of up to Aus$10 million (US$7 million) per breach or 10 percent of the company's local turnover, which the ACCC has estimated at some US$4 billion annually.

Australia on Friday unveiled a draft law to force Google and Facebook to pay news media for their content in a "world-leading" initiative sure to prompt a confrontation with the digital giants. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg announced the "mandatory code of conduct" to govern relations between the struggling news industry and the tech firms after 18 months of negotiations failed to bring the two sides together. In addition to payment for content, the code covers issues like access to user data, transparency of algorithms and ranking of content in the platforms' news feeds and search results. Frydenberg said legislation implementing the code would be introduced into parliament in the coming weeks and include "substantial penalties" that could cost the tech companies hundreds of millions of dollars. While the code could eventually apply to any digital platform using Australian news content, Frydenberg said it would initially focus on Facebook and Google, two of the world's richest and most powerful companies. Australia's initiative has been closely watched around the globe as news media worldwide have suffered in an increasingly digital economy where advertising revenue is overwhelmingly captured by Facebook, Google and other big tech firms. The news industry crisis has been exacerbated by the economic collapse caused by the coronavirus pandemic, with dozens of Australian newspapers closed and hundreds of journalists sacked in recent months. Facebook and Google have strongly opposed any move forcing them to share advertising revenue, hinting they could simply boycott Australian media if mandatory payments are imposed. Frydenberg has said the aim was "not to protect Australian news media businesses from competition, or from disruption that's occurring across this sector" but rather "to create a level playing field to ensure a fair go for Australian news media businesses." Under the code, drawn up by the Australian anti-trust watchdog ACCC, tech companies will be required to negotiate with news firms "in good faith" over payments for use of their content. If agreement cannot be reached within three months, the issue will go to binding arbitration to determine the amount of payments. The code also imposes a range of obligations on the digital platforms including providing advance notice of algorithm changes affecting news ranking and transparency over advertising run against news content. Violations of the code will draw penalties of up to Aus$10 million (US$7 million) per breach or 10 percent of the company's local turnover, which the ACCC has estimated at some US$4 billion annually.

Australia unveils law forcing Google, Facebook to pay for news

Google's $2.1 billion bid for fitness tracker maker Fitbit will face a full-scale EU antitrust investigation next week, people familiar with the matter said on Thursday.

$2.1 billion Google-Fitbit deal faces EU antitrust probe

The chief executives of four of the world's largest tech companies will argue in a congressional hearing on antitrust on Wednesday that they face intense competition from each other and from other rivals -- painting them as US success stories in a fiercely competitive world.

The unprecedented hearing will feature chief executives Jeff Bezos of Amazon, Tim Cook of Apple, Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook and Sundar Pichai of Google and its parent firm Alphabet. The CEOs will testify remotely at the hearing, which comes less than 100 days before the US election.

The four will testify to a panel of lawmakers investigating how their business practices and data gathering have hurt smaller rivals as they seek to retain their dominance, or expand.

The testimony from Amazon's Jeff Bezos, Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg, Google's Sundar Pichai and Apple's Tim Cook, which was released Tuesday, portrays four chief executives who are looking over their shoulders at competitors who could render them obsolete.

Pichai argues that search -- which Google dominates by most metrics -- was broader than just typing a query into Google, and says he remains concerned about being relevant as people turn to Twitter, Pinterest or other websites for information.

He also highlights how Alphabet is helping America solidify its position as the global leader of budding technologies such artificial intelligence and self-driving cars.

In his remarks, Bezos paints online giant Amazon as an American "success" story, while accepting a need for scrutiny.

Hesays Amazon occupies a small share of the overall retail market and competes with retailers like Walmart, which is twice its size. He also says the coronavirus pandemic boosted e-commerce businesses across the spectrum and not just Amazon.

Zuckerberg argues that Facebook competes against other companies appearing at the hearing and against others globally. He also defends Facebook's acquisitions by saying the social media platform helped companies like WhatsApp and Instagram grow. Both are owned by Facebook.

He says the internet giant would not have succeeded without US laws fostering competition, but that the rules of the internet now need updating.

Apple's Tim Cook says the company "does not have a dominant market share in any market where we do business. That is not just true for iPhone, it is true for any product category."

He says scrutiny is "reasonable and appropriate" but that Apple will make "no concession on the facts." Apple does not have a dominant position in any market, and the iPhone faces fierce competition, according to Cook's prepared remarks.

The showdown in the House of Representatives comes amid rising concerns over Big Tech dominance, which has become even more pronounced during the coronavirus pandemic.

Questions at the hearing are expected to veer into issues ranging beyond whether the technology titans are abusing their power in marketplaces.

Current US antitrust laws make it difficult for enforcers to target companies simply for being large or dominant without also showing they cause harm to consumers or abuse their market power.

The tech company chiefs are expected to stress how they benefit consumers, particularly during the pandemic, and face competition -- particularly from China.

The antitrust debate is being muddled by a rising "techlash" over a range of issues from privacy to economic inequality to political bias.

Social media giants face attacks for allegedly using their dominance to stifle conservative views -- a claim made by President Donald Trump.

Facebook has also been accused of failing to curb hateful content promoting violence, including from Trump.

(with inputs from agencies)

The chief executives of four of the world's largest tech companies will argue in a congressional hearing on antitrust on Wednesday that they face intense competition from each other and from other rivals -- painting them as US success stories in a fiercely competitive world.

The chief executives of four of the world's largest tech companies will argue in a congressional hearing on antitrust on Wednesday that they face intense competition from each other and from other rivals -- painting them as US success stories in a fiercely competitive world. The unprecedented hearing will feature chief executives Jeff Bezos of Amazon, Tim Cook of Apple, Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook and Sundar Pichai of Google and its parent firm Alphabet. The CEOs will testify remotely at the hearing, which comes less than 100 days before the US election. The four will testify to a panel of lawmakers investigating how their business practices and data gathering have hurt smaller rivals as they seek to retain their dominance, or expand. The testimony from Amazon's Jeff Bezos, Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg, Google's Sundar Pichai and Apple's Tim Cook, which was released Tuesday, portrays four chief executives who are looking over their shoulders at competitors who could render them obsolete. Pichai argues that search -- which Google dominates by most metrics -- was broader than just typing a query into Google, and says he remains concerned about being relevant as people turn to Twitter, Pinterest or other websites for information. He also highlights how Alphabet is helping America solidify its position as the global leader of budding technologies such artificial intelligence and self-driving cars. In his remarks, Bezos paints online giant Amazon as an American "success" story, while accepting a need for scrutiny. Hesays Amazon occupies a small share of the overall retail market and competes with retailers like Walmart, which is twice its size. He also says the coronavirus pandemic boosted e-commerce businesses across the spectrum and not just Amazon. Zuckerberg argues that Facebook competes against other companies appearing at the hearing and against others globally. He also defends Facebook's acquisitions by saying the social media platform helped companies like WhatsApp and Instagram grow. Both are owned by Facebook. He says the internet giant would not have succeeded without US laws fostering competition, but that the rules of the internet now need updating. Apple's Tim Cook says the company "does not have a dominant market share in any market where we do business. That is not just true for iPhone, it is true for any product category." He says scrutiny is "reasonable and appropriate" but that Apple will make "no concession on the facts." Apple does not have a dominant position in any market, and the iPhone faces fierce competition, according to Cook's prepared remarks. The showdown in the House of Representatives comes amid rising concerns over Big Tech dominance, which has become even more pronounced during the coronavirus pandemic. Questions at the hearing are expected to veer into issues ranging beyond whether the technology titans are abusing their power in marketplaces. Current US antitrust laws make it difficult for enforcers to target companies simply for being large or dominant without also showing they cause harm to consumers or abuse their market power. The tech company chiefs are expected to stress how they benefit consumers, particularly during the pandemic, and face competition -- particularly from China. The antitrust debate is being muddled by a rising "techlash" over a range of issues from privacy to economic inequality to political bias. Social media giants face attacks for allegedly using their dominance to stifle conservative views -- a claim made by President Donald Trump. Facebook has also been accused of failing to curb hateful content promoting violence, including from Trump. (with inputs from agencies)

Tech giants to defend their companies as US success stories in antitrust hearing

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