Digital media company Buzzfeed is goin big on AI-generated content, reports say, the company now plans to use ChatGPT creator OpenAI to generate specific content for the site.

Buzzfeed inks $10 mn deal with Meta; will OpenAI for content, say reports

Following a two-year suspension after the deadly Capitol Hill riot on January 6, 2021,&nbsp;Meta Platforms Inc (META.O) announced on Wednesday (January 25) that it will soon reinstate former US President Donald Trump's Facebook and Instagram accounts.

The social media company said in a blog post it has "put new guardrails in place to deter repeat offenses."

Trump has declared he would run for president again in 2024, and the two most important platforms for political funding and outreach are Facebook and Instagram.

After regaining access to his once-favourite social media platform, Twitter, in November 2022, he claimed to be in negotiations with Meta about making a return.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: US gun terror claims the life of an Indian student

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"In the event that Mr. Trump posts further violating content, the content will be removed and he will be suspended for between one month and two years, depending on the severity of the violation," wrote Nick Clegg, Meta's president of global affairs, in the blog post.

The decision to suspend Trump caused controversy for Meta, the largest social media company in the world, which has never before suspended a sitting head of state's account for breaking its content guidelines.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Following a two-year suspension after the deadly Capitol Hill riot on January 6, 2021, Meta Platforms Inc (META.O) announced on Wednesday (January 25) that it will soon reinstate former US President Donald Trump's Facebook and Instagram accounts.

Following a two-year suspension after the deadly Capitol Hill riot on January 6, 2021, Meta Platforms Inc (META.O) announced on Wednesday (January 25) that it will soon reinstate former US President Donald Trump's Facebook and Instagram accounts. The social media company said in a blog post it has "put new guardrails in place to deter repeat offenses." Trump has declared he would run for president again in 2024, and the two most important platforms for political funding and outreach are Facebook and Instagram. After regaining access to his once-favourite social media platform, Twitter, in November 2022, he claimed to be in negotiations with Meta about making a return. Also watch | Gravitas: US gun terror claims the life of an Indian student "In the event that Mr. Trump posts further violating content, the content will be removed and he will be suspended for between one month and two years, depending on the severity of the violation," wrote Nick Clegg, Meta's president of global affairs, in the blog post. The decision to suspend Trump caused controversy for Meta, the largest social media company in the world, which has never before suspended a sitting head of state's account for breaking its content guidelines. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Meta to soon reinstate Donald Trump's Facebook, Instagram accounts

A brief outage disrupted services across Meta platforms, including Whatsapp, Instagram and Facebook, on Wednesday. According to the outage tracker website Downdetector.com, the services on the apps were restored shortly after thousands of users reported issues with the Meta app network. At the peak of the outage, more than 17,000 users reported issues with Instagram in the United States. More than 13,000 cases involving the Facebook app were also reported.

Microsoft faced similar outages earlier on Wednesday when millions of users across the world reported they were unable to access MS Teams and Outlook.Downdetector.com reported that the outages were reported with Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram and Whatsapp on Wednesday.

Watch: Gravitas: Why are Tech Giants laying off thousands?

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It’s not uncommon for tech companies to experience network outages. Google Ads services also saw service disruptions earlier this week on Monday, when the campaigners could not access their ad campaigns for more than 3 hours.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/microsoft-investigates-teams-outlook-outage-555809">Microsoft investigating Teams, Outlook outage</a>

The reports of network outages come as American tech companies have gone on a firing spree in recent months. Last week, Google announced it was laying off 6 per cent of its workforce, which roughly accounts for 12,000 employees. Facebook last year laid off 11,000 employees. Furthermore, Microsoft recently announced to lay off 10,000 jobs globally. The business announced that it is permanently shutting down its VR platform.

While it’s unclear what led to the recent service disruptions across Meta and Microsoft networks, the tech firms have stayed mum and refused to share details.

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A brief outage disrupted services across Meta platforms, including Whatsapp, Instagram and Facebook, on Wednesday. According to the outage tracker website Downdetector.

A brief outage disrupted services across Meta platforms, including Whatsapp, Instagram and Facebook, on Wednesday. According to the outage tracker website Downdetector.com, the services on the apps were restored shortly after thousands of users reported issues with the Meta app network. At the peak of the outage, more than 17,000 users reported issues with Instagram in the United States. More than 13,000 cases involving the Facebook app were also reported. Microsoft faced similar outages earlier on Wednesday when millions of users across the world reported they were unable to access MS Teams and Outlook.Downdetector.com reported that the outages were reported with Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram and Whatsapp on Wednesday. Watch: Gravitas: Why are Tech Giants laying off thousands? × It’s not uncommon for tech companies to experience network outages. Google Ads services also saw service disruptions earlier this week on Monday, when the campaigners could not access their ad campaigns for more than 3 hours. Also Read | Microsoft investigating Teams, Outlook outage The reports of network outages come as American tech companies have gone on a firing spree in recent months. Last week, Google announced it was laying off 6 per cent of its workforce, which roughly accounts for 12,000 employees. Facebook last year laid off 11,000 employees. Furthermore, Microsoft recently announced to lay off 10,000 jobs globally. The business announced that it is permanently shutting down its VR platform. While it’s unclear what led to the recent service disruptions across Meta and Microsoft networks, the tech firms have stayed mum and refused to share details. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

After Microsoft, Meta network hit by brief outage; services restored now

After two years former President will be back on Facebook and Instagram as parent company Meta says it will allow Trump back on its platforms in the coming weeks. Trump was banned from the platform over his online behaviour during January 6, 2021 insurrection.

Former US Pres Donald Trump back on Meta platforms as it reinstates his Facebook, Insta accounts

Ireland's Data Privacy Commissioner (DPC) on Thursday slapped an additional fine of $5.95 million on Meta's WhatsApp for breaches of the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).&nbsp;Ireland-based media outlet The Journal reported that DPC further announced that WhatsApp Ireland has six months to bring its data processing operations into compliance.&nbsp;

Two weeks ago, the tech giant was fined 390 million euros when Instagram and Facebook were found to have flouted the same EU rules.

In a statement, the watchdog said that in its new decision, the tech company was found to be "in breach of its obligations in relation to transparency".&nbsp;

The DPC added that Meta was relying on an incorrect legal basis "for its processing of personal data for the purposes of service improvement and security".&nbsp;

The Irish regulator has taken strict action when it comes to security issues. For failures in handling the data of minors, Meta was fined 405 million euros in September. Meanwhile, it was fined 265 million euros in November for not sufficiently protecting users' data.&nbsp;

GDPR was adopted in 2016 and its aim is to enhance control and rights to users' personal data. The regulation came into force on 25 May 2018.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Ireland's Data Privacy Commissioner (DPC) on Thursday slapped an additional fine of $5.95 million on Meta's WhatsApp for breaches of the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Ireland's Data Privacy Commissioner (DPC) on Thursday slapped an additional fine of $5.95 million on Meta's WhatsApp for breaches of the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Ireland-based media outlet The Journal reported that DPC further announced that WhatsApp Ireland has six months to bring its data processing operations into compliance. Two weeks ago, the tech giant was fined 390 million euros when Instagram and Facebook were found to have flouted the same EU rules. In a statement, the watchdog said that in its new decision, the tech company was found to be "in breach of its obligations in relation to transparency". The DPC added that Meta was relying on an incorrect legal basis "for its processing of personal data for the purposes of service improvement and security". The Irish regulator has taken strict action when it comes to security issues. For failures in handling the data of minors, Meta was fined 405 million euros in September. Meanwhile, it was fined 265 million euros in November for not sufficiently protecting users' data. GDPR was adopted in 2016 and its aim is to enhance control and rights to users' personal data. The regulation came into force on 25 May 2018. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Meta fined $5.9 million for violating EU data protection regulations

Donald Trump has urged&nbsp;Meta to grant him access to Facebook once again&nbsp;as he allegedly attempts to intensify his 2024 US presidential campaign, as reported by the Guardian. More than two years ago, the former US president was banned from Facebook after some of his supporters attempted to prevent the certification of Joe Biden's win in the 2020 presidential election by attacking the US Capitol.

In a letter to Meta obtained by&nbsp;NBC News on Wednesday, Trump's advisors said that the ban "dramatically distorted and inhibited the public discourse" and should be repealed.&nbsp;

Meta stated that it will "announce a decision in the coming weeks."

Trump was banned from Facebook and Twitter a day after the attack on January 6, 2021—which has been connected to nine deaths, including police officer suicides

Trump urged his supporters to congregate near the Capitol using his Twitter account. Before the assault, he urged supporters to "fight like hell" in a speech. He later criticised his vice president, Mike Pence, on Twitter for continuing certification while the assault was ongoing.

Also watch |&nbsp;US: NYC Mayor Eric Adams says, 'No room for migrants' | English News | WION

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Trump's account was reinstated on Twitter when Elon Musk acquired it last year. However, Trump has chosen to stick with the competing social media platform, Truth Social, and has not tweeted since.

Trump has roughly 88 million followers on Twitter and 34 million followers on Facebook, respectively. He has fewer than 5 million followers on Truth Social.

Throughout his term in office and during his presidential campaign in 2016, Trump made extensive use of Twitter and Facebook.

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Donald Trump has urged Meta to grant him access to Facebook once again as he allegedly attempts to intensify his 2024 US presidential campaign, as reported by the Guardian.

Donald Trump has urged Meta to grant him access to Facebook once again as he allegedly attempts to intensify his 2024 US presidential campaign, as reported by the Guardian. More than two years ago, the former US president was banned from Facebook after some of his supporters attempted to prevent the certification of Joe Biden's win in the 2020 presidential election by attacking the US Capitol. In a letter to Meta obtained by NBC News on Wednesday, Trump's advisors said that the ban "dramatically distorted and inhibited the public discourse" and should be repealed. Meta stated that it will "announce a decision in the coming weeks." Trump was banned from Facebook and Twitter a day after the attack on January 6, 2021—which has been connected to nine deaths, including police officer suicides Trump urged his supporters to congregate near the Capitol using his Twitter account. Before the assault, he urged supporters to "fight like hell" in a speech. He later criticised his vice president, Mike Pence, on Twitter for continuing certification while the assault was ongoing. Also watch | US: NYC Mayor Eric Adams says, 'No room for migrants' | English News | WION Trump's account was reinstated on Twitter when Elon Musk acquired it last year. However, Trump has chosen to stick with the competing social media platform, Truth Social, and has not tweeted since. Trump has roughly 88 million followers on Twitter and 34 million followers on Facebook, respectively. He has fewer than 5 million followers on Truth Social. Throughout his term in office and during his presidential campaign in 2016, Trump made extensive use of Twitter and Facebook. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Trump urges Facebook to reinstate his account as he gears up for 2024 run

Let's take a look at what's trending across the news - Amazon begins laying off 18,000 people from its cart of employees, in a first, scientists use car-sized laser to divert lightning strikes.

Trending on WION: Meta to lift breast images ban rule in Facebook, Instagram

Meta’s independent oversight board has reportedly decided to lift its strict rule that had banned photos of bare breasts to be posted on Instagram and Facebook, following a decade-long “free the nipple” campaign.&nbsp;

The oversight board, which is composed of academics, politicians and journalists, on January 17 advised the tech firm to change its adult nudity and sexual activity community standard “so that it is governed by clear criteria that respect international human rights standards”, reports the Guardian.&nbsp;

The recommendations of the board are said to be binding and it is expected that Meta will most likely follow them.&nbsp;

In its recommendation, the board said that “the [old] policy is based on a binary view of gender and a distinction between male and female bodies,” which makes rules about baring nipples “unclear” for those who do not identify as women. &nbsp;

It argued that the policy hindered inclusivity on the platforms, especially for women, intersex, non-binary and transgender people.&nbsp;

The move comes after the board overturned Meta’s decision to strike out two Instagram posts featuring transgender and non-binary people with bare chests.&nbsp;

Meta’s strict nudity policy has been the subject of an intense debate over its strict guidelines in cutting the exposure of women’s nipples. This rule had often come in the way of breastfeeding women who have had their content censured.&nbsp;

The movement, which began in 2000 in an attempt to de-sexualise the image of breasts, went mainstream in 2012 after Facebook took down clips from the actor/director Lina Esco’s documentary Free the Nipple.&nbsp;

The move was heavily criticised, with protests breaking out at Facebook headquarters at the time demanding the right for women to bare their breasts on social media if they choose to do so.&nbsp;

They have been contending that the platforms often allow hate speech to go uncensored, while female nipples are barred.&nbsp;

CEO Mark Zuckerburg tried to justify this in 2018 saying, "It's easier to build an AI system to detect a nipple than what is hate speech."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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Meta’s independent oversight board has reportedly decided to lift its strict rule that had banned photos of bare breasts to be posted on Instagram and Facebook, following a decade-long “free the nipple” campaign.

Meta’s independent oversight board has reportedly decided to lift its strict rule that had banned photos of bare breasts to be posted on Instagram and Facebook, following a decade-long “free the nipple” campaign. The oversight board, which is composed of academics, politicians and journalists, on January 17 advised the tech firm to change its adult nudity and sexual activity community standard “so that it is governed by clear criteria that respect international human rights standards”, reports the Guardian. The recommendations of the board are said to be binding and it is expected that Meta will most likely follow them. In its recommendation, the board said that “the [old] policy is based on a binary view of gender and a distinction between male and female bodies,” which makes rules about baring nipples “unclear” for those who do not identify as women. It argued that the policy hindered inclusivity on the platforms, especially for women, intersex, non-binary and transgender people. The move comes after the board overturned Meta’s decision to strike out two Instagram posts featuring transgender and non-binary people with bare chests. Meta’s strict nudity policy has been the subject of an intense debate over its strict guidelines in cutting the exposure of women’s nipples. This rule had often come in the way of breastfeeding women who have had their content censured. The movement, which began in 2000 in an attempt to de-sexualise the image of breasts, went mainstream in 2012 after Facebook took down clips from the actor/director Lina Esco’s documentary Free the Nipple. The move was heavily criticised, with protests breaking out at Facebook headquarters at the time demanding the right for women to bare their breasts on social media if they choose to do so. They have been contending that the platforms often allow hate speech to go uncensored, while female nipples are barred. CEO Mark Zuckerburg tried to justify this in 2018 saying, "It's easier to build an AI system to detect a nipple than what is hate speech." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘Free the nipple’: Meta to lift breast images ban rule in Facebook, Instagram 

In the latest change in the tech sector, both Facebook parent Meta and Microsoft are vacating their respective office buildings in Seattle and Bellevue in&nbsp;Washington, Seattle&nbsp;Times reported. Facebook on Friday confirmed that it plans to sublease both its offices, one at the six-story Arbor Block 333 in downtown Seattle, and the other at the 11-storey Block 6 of the Spring District in Bellevue. 
 
The Seattle Times&nbsp;also said that this announcement came as the demand for offices in Seattle decreased by the continuous rise of remote work and a tech slowdown that resulted in massive&nbsp;layoffs. It also said that Redmond-based Microsoft confirmed the reports that it won't renew its lease at the 26-storey City Centre plaza in Bellevue when that&nbsp;lease ends in 2024.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;World Business Watch: Microsoft and Meta vacating offices in the US

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The media outlet also reported that both Microsoft and Meta have embraced remote work while it announced layoffs of over 700 Seattle-area workers.

Tracy Clayton, a Meta spokesperson told Seattle Times that the recent leasing decision has been primarily driven by the company's move toward&nbsp;remote.&nbsp;He also said that "Meta is also trying to be...financially prudent."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-and-meta-fall-from-list-of-best-places-to-work-as-per-new-ranking-of-glassdoor-552021">Also read |&nbsp;Apple and Meta lose spot among 100 best places to work in Glassdoor survey after a decade</a>

Clayton also said that Meta still occupies around 29 buildings, and almost 8,000 workers in Seattle, being the company's second-largest engineering hub.

While a Microsoft spokesperson said that this decision is&nbsp;characterised&nbsp;by the firm's ongoing evaluation of its "real estate portfolio to ensure we provide an exceptional place to work and create greater collaboration and community for our employees." 
 
The Seattle Times also said that even the non-vacant offices are almost half-empty, owing to remote work. 
 
Since last summer, Seattle has&nbsp;only 40 per cent of the workers present before the pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In the latest change in the tech sector, both Facebook parent Meta and Microsoft are vacating their respective office buildings in Seattle and Bellevue in Washington, Seattle Times reported.

In the latest change in the tech sector, both Facebook parent Meta and Microsoft are vacating their respective office buildings in Seattle and Bellevue in Washington, Seattle Times reported. Facebook on Friday confirmed that it plans to sublease both its offices, one at the six-story Arbor Block 333 in downtown Seattle, and the other at the 11-storey Block 6 of the Spring District in Bellevue. The Seattle Times also said that this announcement came as the demand for offices in Seattle decreased by the continuous rise of remote work and a tech slowdown that resulted in massive layoffs. It also said that Redmond-based Microsoft confirmed the reports that it won't renew its lease at the 26-storey City Centre plaza in Bellevue when that lease ends in 2024. Watch | World Business Watch: Microsoft and Meta vacating offices in the US The media outlet also reported that both Microsoft and Meta have embraced remote work while it announced layoffs of over 700 Seattle-area workers. Tracy Clayton, a Meta spokesperson told Seattle Times that the recent leasing decision has been primarily driven by the company's move toward remote. He also said that "Meta is also trying to be...financially prudent." Also read | Apple and Meta lose spot among 100 best places to work in Glassdoor survey after a decade Clayton also said that Meta still occupies around 29 buildings, and almost 8,000 workers in Seattle, being the company's second-largest engineering hub. While a Microsoft spokesperson said that this decision is characterised by the firm's ongoing evaluation of its "real estate portfolio to ensure we provide an exceptional place to work and create greater collaboration and community for our employees." The Seattle Times also said that even the non-vacant offices are almost half-empty, owing to remote work. Since last summer, Seattle has only 40 per cent of the workers present before the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Remote work and mass layoffs push Meta and Microsoft to vacate Seattle offices: Reports

Meta and Microsoft are separately vacating office buildings in Seattle and Bellevue in Washington. The move occurred due to change in the tech sector and softness in the office market. Watch further to know more.

World Business Watch: Microsoft and Meta vacating offices in the U.S.

Biggest technological firms, Apple and Meta, which are known for giving the best perks and environment to their employees, failed to get a mention in the 100 Best Places to Work in 2023, listed by Glassdoor.&nbsp;This is the first time since 2009 that Apple failed to make its place in Glassdoor’s best places to work list besides Meta which was also consistently ranked in the list since 2011.

Both the companies, last year, were ranked in the middle, reported Bloomberg. The annual list released by Glassdoor is based on employees’ feedback about the company, at least 1,000 employees, that were submitted between October 19, 2021, to October 17, 2022.

Glassdoor’s lead economist Daniel Zhao, while speaking to Insider, said that this year’s ranking highlights common themes like communication, flexibility and transparency, and also indicates the perspectives of employees towards the economic outlook&nbsp;of the company.

WATCH|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/is-apple-going-back-on-its-word-touchscreen-for-macs-as-early-as-2025-551842">Is Apple going back on its word? Touchscreen for Macs as early as 2025</a>

"It's something that we get feedback on from employees because we know it's something that people care about and that's even more important at a time when the economy might be slowing down," said Zhao said.

"So I think this list is especially useful in that sense because we are considering how employees perceive their employers are doing,” he added.

"It becomes more important than ever for people to really understand the health of the company that they're going to, whether you're talking about financial health or cultural health," Zhao further stated. In the past year, Apple and Meta faced headwinds.

Meta rescinded job offers, stopped hiring and fired around 11,000 employees in 2022, the largest layoffs in the history of the company. Concerns were also expressed by the employees over the focus of Mark Zuckerberg on Metaverse, a world where AR and VR devices are used by people to connect in a digital universe.

WATCH| Gravitas Plus: The Metaverse Explained

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In a similar way, hiring was frozen by Apple in 2022. Zhao, while speaking to Bloomberg, said that the company may have also fallen off the ranking because they pressured employees to return to the office.&nbsp; &nbsp;

While Apple and Meta were removed from the list, few tech companies continued to dominate the rankings, as Microsoft, LinkedIn, and Google reached the top 20.

"Yes, there are some companies that fell off the list. There are some tech companies that entered the list. It's just a reminder that during tough times, often we see a changing of the guard. There are older companies who might be stuck in their ways that tend to fall by the wayside, whereas new companies can challenge and rise to the top,” said Zhao.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Biggest technological firms, Apple and Meta, which are known for giving the best perks and environment to their employees, failed to get a mention in the 100 Best Places to Work in 2023, listed by Glassdoor.

Biggest technological firms, Apple and Meta, which are known for giving the best perks and environment to their employees, failed to get a mention in the 100 Best Places to Work in 2023, listed by Glassdoor. This is the first time since 2009 that Apple failed to make its place in Glassdoor’s best places to work list besides Meta which was also consistently ranked in the list since 2011. Both the companies, last year, were ranked in the middle, reported Bloomberg. The annual list released by Glassdoor is based on employees’ feedback about the company, at least 1,000 employees, that were submitted between October 19, 2021, to October 17, 2022. Glassdoor’s lead economist Daniel Zhao, while speaking to Insider, said that this year’s ranking highlights common themes like communication, flexibility and transparency, and also indicates the perspectives of employees towards the economic outlook of the company. WATCH| Is Apple going back on its word? Touchscreen for Macs as early as 2025 "It's something that we get feedback on from employees because we know it's something that people care about and that's even more important at a time when the economy might be slowing down," said Zhao said. "So I think this list is especially useful in that sense because we are considering how employees perceive their employers are doing,” he added. "It becomes more important than ever for people to really understand the health of the company that they're going to, whether you're talking about financial health or cultural health," Zhao further stated. In the past year, Apple and Meta faced headwinds. Meta rescinded job offers, stopped hiring and fired around 11,000 employees in 2022, the largest layoffs in the history of the company. Concerns were also expressed by the employees over the focus of Mark Zuckerberg on Metaverse, a world where AR and VR devices are used by people to connect in a digital universe. WATCH| Gravitas Plus: The Metaverse Explained In a similar way, hiring was frozen by Apple in 2022. Zhao, while speaking to Bloomberg, said that the company may have also fallen off the ranking because they pressured employees to return to the office. While Apple and Meta were removed from the list, few tech companies continued to dominate the rankings, as Microsoft, LinkedIn, and Google reached the top 20. "Yes, there are some companies that fell off the list. There are some tech companies that entered the list. It's just a reminder that during tough times, often we see a changing of the guard. There are older companies who might be stuck in their ways that tend to fall by the wayside, whereas new companies can challenge and rise to the top,” said Zhao. (With inputs from agencies)

Apple and Meta lose spot among 100 best places to work in Glassdoor survey after a decade

Tightening the advertising policy for young users, especially teens, Meta on Tuesday announced it was removing gender as an option for advertisers to target the said demography.

Tightening the advertising policy for young users, especially teens, Meta on Tuesday announced it was removing gender as an option for advertisers to target the said demography. In a blog post, Meta informed that beginning next month, the advertisers will only get their hands over the age and location data of teens globally. "Beginning in February, advertisers will only be able to use age and location to reach teens; we are removing gender as a targeting option." The social media giant noted that teens did not have the bandwidth to make decisions about their online data which necessitated the policy change. "We recognise that teens aren’t necessarily as equipped as adults to make decisions about how their online data is used for advertising, particularly when it comes to showing them products available to purchase. "For that reason, we’re further restricting the options advertisers have to reach teens, as well as the information we use to show ads to teens." WATCH | Meta fined more than $400 million over European Union data breaches × Additionally, any teenagers' previous engagement across Meta's subsidiary applications will not affect the kind of ads they see. Starting March, the teens will have a greater say in the kind of ads they see on their feeds. Ad Topics Controls, a feature already available on Meta will allow teens to choose their preferences and control the ads. Currently, Meta does not allow advertisements related to alcohol, financial products and weight loss products to be served to minors. Why is Meta changing the policy? The changes rolled in by Meta, owner of Instagram of Facebook come in the backdrop of accusations that dubbed the platform harmful for young users. Moreover, the changes may have been fast-tracked after European Union (EU) regulators slapped the company with a $414 million fine over data breaches. Read more: Meta hit with US$413 million fine over EU privacy breach The 27-nation bloc also banned the company from persuading users to accept tailored advertisements based on their online behaviour. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Meta bans targeted ads at teenagers based on gender

The United States-based tech giant and Facebook parent company Meta appoints former Tata Cliq CEO Vikas Purohit as the Director of Global Business Group in India. In the new role, Purohit will lead Meta’s strategic relationship with various brands and agencies in bolstering the company's digital tools for revenue growth in India's business.

Vikas Purohit comes with over 20 years of experience in business, sales and marketing and astute knowledge of the market, given his Indian Institute of Management (IIM) education. He has worked previously with big league brands such as Tata Cliq, Amazon, Reliance brands, Aditya Birla group and Tommy Hilfiger.

Last month, he paid homage to his mentors on the popular social network Linkedin. Purohit will be succeeding Ajit Mohan who last year joined Snap Inc, which is the social media platform Snapchat’s parent company as the president of APAC to lead its business in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/metas-india-head-ajit-mohan-resigns-after-four-years-in-the-role-might-join-snap-530989">Meta's India head Ajit Mohan resigns after four years in the role, may join Snap</a>

As he steps into the new role, his responsibilities lie in engaging with brands and agencies, leading partnership initiatives with media and creating ecosystems to increase the adoption of Meta’s tools.

He would handle the company's key business verticals, including the agency teams and business solutions teams. Purohit will report to Arun Srinivas, the director and head of ads business for Meta in India.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ex-tata-cliq-ceo-vikas-purohit-takes-charge-as-metas-new-global-head-in-india-551133">Ex-Tata Cliq CEO Vikas Purohit takes charge as Meta's new global head in India</a>

“I am thrilled to welcome Vikas as he joins our team to shape the role that Meta platforms can play in enabling businesses, supporting India's economic growth, and building the digital advertising ecosystem of the country,” said Srinivas in a statement.&nbsp;

India remains an indispensable market for tech giants such as Meta, with targeted ads and the adoption of new digital advertisement models, they aim to create a campaign to garner consumer interest.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sandhya-devanathan-appointed-as-metas-new-india-head-everything-about-her-535121">Sandhya Devanathan appointed as Meta's new India head: What does her new role entail?</a>

In FY22, Meta's gross ad revenue rose by 74% YoY to 1.9 billion, based on the increase in the adoption of its digital ad tools. 
 
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The United States-based tech giant and Facebook parent company Meta appoints former Tata Cliq CEO Vikas Purohit as the Director of Global Business Group in India.

The United States-based tech giant and Facebook parent company Meta appoints former Tata Cliq CEO Vikas Purohit as the Director of Global Business Group in India. In the new role, Purohit will lead Meta’s strategic relationship with various brands and agencies in bolstering the company's digital tools for revenue growth in India's business. Vikas Purohit comes with over 20 years of experience in business, sales and marketing and astute knowledge of the market, given his Indian Institute of Management (IIM) education. He has worked previously with big league brands such as Tata Cliq, Amazon, Reliance brands, Aditya Birla group and Tommy Hilfiger. Last month, he paid homage to his mentors on the popular social network Linkedin. Purohit will be succeeding Ajit Mohan who last year joined Snap Inc, which is the social media platform Snapchat’s parent company as the president of APAC to lead its business in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. ALSO READ | Meta's India head Ajit Mohan resigns after four years in the role, may join Snap As he steps into the new role, his responsibilities lie in engaging with brands and agencies, leading partnership initiatives with media and creating ecosystems to increase the adoption of Meta’s tools. He would handle the company's key business verticals, including the agency teams and business solutions teams. Purohit will report to Arun Srinivas, the director and head of ads business for Meta in India. ALSO WATCH | Ex-Tata Cliq CEO Vikas Purohit takes charge as Meta's new global head in India “I am thrilled to welcome Vikas as he joins our team to shape the role that Meta platforms can play in enabling businesses, supporting India's economic growth, and building the digital advertising ecosystem of the country,” said Srinivas in a statement. India remains an indispensable market for tech giants such as Meta, with targeted ads and the adoption of new digital advertisement models, they aim to create a campaign to garner consumer interest. ALSO READ | Sandhya Devanathan appointed as Meta's new India head: What does her new role entail? In FY22, Meta's gross ad revenue rose by 74% YoY to 1.9 billion, based on the increase in the adoption of its digital ad tools. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Meta hires former Tata Cliq CEO Vikas Purohit as Director of Global Business Group in India

The US Supreme Court allowed WhatsApp, a messaging app owned by Meta Platforms Inc., to proceed with a lawsuit against Israel's NSO Group on Monday, claiming it installed spy software on 1,400 people, including journalists, human rights activists, and dissidents, by exploiting a bug.

“Today’s decision clears the path for lawsuits brought by the tech companies as well as for suits brought by journalists and human rights advocates who have been victims of spyware attacks,” Carrie DeCell, a senior staff attorney, representing journalists in a separate lawsuit against NSO Group, said on Monday.

The appeal NSO made of a lower court's decision to allow the litigation to proceed was denied by the justices. Due to its role as an agent for undisclosed foreign governments when it installed the "Pegasus" spyware, NSO had contended that it was exempt from legal action.

The administration of President Joe Biden had urged the court to dismiss NSO's appeal, pointing out that the US State Department has never in the past acknowledged a private organisation functioning as an agent of a foreign state as being entitled to immunity, Reuters reported. At the time when the Department of Justice argued that “NSO plainly is not entitled to immunity here.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/world/pegasus-spyware-scandal-becomes-a-full-blown-european-affair-report-532526" hreflang="en">Pegasus spyware scandal becomes a ‘full-blown European Union affair’: Report</a>

On Monday, Meta, which also owns Facebook, applauded the Supreme Court for rejecting what it called a "baseless" petition.&nbsp;

“NSO’s spyware has enabled cyberattacks targeting human rights activists, journalists and government officials,” Meta said in a statement, according to Al Jazeera. “We firmly believe that their operations violate US law and they must be held to account for their unlawful operations.”

Accusing NSO of illegally accessing WhatsApp servers six months prior to the installation of the Pegasus software on victims' mobiles, WhatsApp sued NSO in 2019 and sought an injunction and damages.

Pegasus malware was allegedly used by state actors to target Palestinian human rights campaigners, Thai democracy advocates, El Salvadorian media personnel, and the murdered Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi's close circle in Saudi Arabia.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/videos/pegasus-row-israeli-citizens-targeted-by-police-using-nso-spyware-software-445948" hreflang="en">Pegasus row: Israeli citizens targeted by police using NSO spyware software</a>

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As a result of the Israeli company's involvement in "transnational repression," the US Department of Commerce blacklisted it in 2021, hampering NSO Group's access to US technology.

The NSO Group has maintained that Pegasus aids law enforcement and intelligence organisations in thwarting criminal activity and preserving national security. The technology is meant to nab "terrorists," paedophiles, and criminals, it said.

Only law enforcement organisations are permitted to purchase the item, according to the company, which does not name its clients, adding that all the sales are authorised by Israel's Ministry of Defense. It has no influence over how the technology is used once it has been purchased, it further said.

The Israeli company issued a statement following the SC’s decision on Monday, saying, “We are confident that the court will determine that the use of Pegasus by its customers was legal.”

Apple, the manufacturer of the iPhone, also filed a lawsuit against the NSO Group, alleging that the company broke into its products and violated the user terms and services agreement.

Employees of NSO have previously been referred to as "amoral 21st-century mercenaries" by Apple.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The US Supreme Court allowed WhatsApp, a messaging app owned by Meta Platforms Inc., to proceed with a lawsuit against Israel's NSO Group on Monday, claiming it installed spy software on 1,400 people, including journalists, human rights activists, and dissidents, by exploiting a bug.

The US Supreme Court allowed WhatsApp, a messaging app owned by Meta Platforms Inc., to proceed with a lawsuit against Israel's NSO Group on Monday, claiming it installed spy software on 1,400 people, including journalists, human rights activists, and dissidents, by exploiting a bug. “Today’s decision clears the path for lawsuits brought by the tech companies as well as for suits brought by journalists and human rights advocates who have been victims of spyware attacks,” Carrie DeCell, a senior staff attorney, representing journalists in a separate lawsuit against NSO Group, said on Monday. The appeal NSO made of a lower court's decision to allow the litigation to proceed was denied by the justices. Due to its role as an agent for undisclosed foreign governments when it installed the "Pegasus" spyware, NSO had contended that it was exempt from legal action. The administration of President Joe Biden had urged the court to dismiss NSO's appeal, pointing out that the US State Department has never in the past acknowledged a private organisation functioning as an agent of a foreign state as being entitled to immunity, Reuters reported. At the time when the Department of Justice argued that “NSO plainly is not entitled to immunity here.” Also Read | Pegasus spyware scandal becomes a ‘full-blown European Union affair’: Report On Monday, Meta, which also owns Facebook, applauded the Supreme Court for rejecting what it called a "baseless" petition. “NSO’s spyware has enabled cyberattacks targeting human rights activists, journalists and government officials,” Meta said in a statement, according to Al Jazeera. “We firmly believe that their operations violate US law and they must be held to account for their unlawful operations.” Accusing NSO of illegally accessing WhatsApp servers six months prior to the installation of the Pegasus software on victims' mobiles, WhatsApp sued NSO in 2019 and sought an injunction and damages. Pegasus malware was allegedly used by state actors to target Palestinian human rights campaigners, Thai democracy advocates, El Salvadorian media personnel, and the murdered Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi's close circle in Saudi Arabia. Watch | Pegasus row: Israeli citizens targeted by police using NSO spyware software As a result of the Israeli company's involvement in "transnational repression," the US Department of Commerce blacklisted it in 2021, hampering NSO Group's access to US technology. The NSO Group has maintained that Pegasus aids law enforcement and intelligence organisations in thwarting criminal activity and preserving national security. The technology is meant to nab "terrorists," paedophiles, and criminals, it said. Only law enforcement organisations are permitted to purchase the item, according to the company, which does not name its clients, adding that all the sales are authorised by Israel's Ministry of Defense. It has no influence over how the technology is used once it has been purchased, it further said. The Israeli company issued a statement following the SC’s decision on Monday, saying, “We are confident that the court will determine that the use of Pegasus by its customers was legal.” Apple, the manufacturer of the iPhone, also filed a lawsuit against the NSO Group, alleging that the company broke into its products and violated the user terms and services agreement. Employees of NSO have previously been referred to as "amoral 21st-century mercenaries" by Apple. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US Supreme Court allows Meta’s WhatsApp to pursue lawsuit against ‘Pegasus’ spyware: Report

Meta and YouTube announced that they would remove any content from their platforms that backs or glorifies the post-election protests in Brazil by Bolsonaro's supporters.&nbsp;

On Monday, Meta, formerly known as Facebook, and Google's video platform, YouTube, are on high alert about the situation in Brazil, currently ravaged by havoc and riots by supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro.&nbsp;

The protestors created mayhem in the presidential house by smashing windows and destroying property. Tens of thousands of protestors crowded the Supreme Court and pillaged government offices during the almost three-hour attack.

Also Read|&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/world/brazil-protests-lula-meets-with-cabinet-minister-calls-attack-an-attempted-coup-550833">Brazil protests: Lula meets with cabinet; minister calls attack 'an attempted coup'</a>

Meta identified Brazil as a high-risk location due to the nature of the elections. Thus, it has banned any content that might influence people to use weapons or invade federal buildings. "We are also designating this as a violating event, which means we will remove content that supports or praises these actions," a Meta spokesperson said.&nbsp;

"We are following the situation actively and will continue removing content that violates our policies," he added.

On January 1, leftist president Lula da Silva took charge of the office after defeating Jair Bolsonaro in a runoff election in October. Lula's third regime as the president of Brazil ended Brazil's most right-wing government in decades.&nbsp;

Watch|&nbsp;Donors pledge more than $9 billion for Pakistan after devastating floods

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However, Bolsonaro did not accept his defeat and left for Florida, United States, as a sign of protest over Lula's inauguration. However, supporters of Bolsonaro used social media platforms like Telegram, Tiktok, YouTube, and Twitter, to organise protests against Lula.&nbsp;

YouTube officials have also said they are closely monitoring the situation in Brazil. "Our Trust and Safety team is removing content that violates our Community Guidelines, including live streams and videos inciting violence," the spokesperson said.&nbsp;

The attacks came around two years after Trump supporters flooded the Presidential house. During the incident, users criticised social media platforms for not filtering graphics of the protests.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Meta and YouTube announced that they would remove any content from their platforms that backs or glorifies the post-election protests in Brazil by Bolsonaro's supporters.

Meta and YouTube announced that they would remove any content from their platforms that backs or glorifies the post-election protests in Brazil by Bolsonaro's supporters. On Monday, Meta, formerly known as Facebook, and Google's video platform, YouTube, are on high alert about the situation in Brazil, currently ravaged by havoc and riots by supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro. The protestors created mayhem in the presidential house by smashing windows and destroying property. Tens of thousands of protestors crowded the Supreme Court and pillaged government offices during the almost three-hour attack. Also Read| Brazil protests: Lula meets with cabinet; minister calls attack 'an attempted coup' Meta identified Brazil as a high-risk location due to the nature of the elections. Thus, it has banned any content that might influence people to use weapons or invade federal buildings. "We are also designating this as a violating event, which means we will remove content that supports or praises these actions," a Meta spokesperson said. "We are following the situation actively and will continue removing content that violates our policies," he added. On January 1, leftist president Lula da Silva took charge of the office after defeating Jair Bolsonaro in a runoff election in October. Lula's third regime as the president of Brazil ended Brazil's most right-wing government in decades. Watch| Donors pledge more than $9 billion for Pakistan after devastating floods However, Bolsonaro did not accept his defeat and left for Florida, United States, as a sign of protest over Lula's inauguration. However, supporters of Bolsonaro used social media platforms like Telegram, Tiktok, YouTube, and Twitter, to organise protests against Lula. YouTube officials have also said they are closely monitoring the situation in Brazil. "Our Trust and Safety team is removing content that violates our Community Guidelines, including live streams and videos inciting violence," the spokesperson said. The attacks came around two years after Trump supporters flooded the Presidential house. During the incident, users criticised social media platforms for not filtering graphics of the protests. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

YouTube, Meta cut out content supporting Brazil riots

Social media giant Meta has appointed Vikas Purohit as the director of the global business group in India. He will be leading Meta’s advertisers and agency partners. Watch further to know more.

Ex-Tata Cliq CEO Vikas Purohit takes charge as Meta's new global head in India

US social media giant Meta has been hit with 412 million dollars worth of fines for breaching European Union's personal data laws. The company has been asked to bring its data processing operations into compliance within three months.

Meta fined $412 mn for EU data breaches; Europe's data rules violated, says Irish regulator

U.S. social media giant Meta has been hit with more than 400 million dollars worth of fines for breaching the European Union's personal data loss. The company has been asked to bring its data processing operations into compliance within 3 months.

Meta fined more than $400 million over European Union data breaches

Regulators in the 27-nation bloc of the European Union fined Facebook parent firm Meta hundreds of millions of euros for privacy breaches on Wednesday and banned the company from persuading users to accept tailored advertisements based on their online behaviour.

In two incidents that might upend Meta's business model of targeting people with adverts based on what they do online, Ireland's Data Protection Commission levied two fines totalling 390 million euros ($414 million). The business claims to be appealing.

The European Union has some of the strongest privacy laws in the world, which have put pressure on Meta and other big tech corporations. Four further penalties totaling more than 900 million euros have already been levied against Meta by Irish regulators for data privacy violations since 2021, and several other lawsuits against other Silicon Valley businesses are still pending.

The EU antitrust regulators in Brussels who are stretching their muscles against digital companies are another regulatory worry for Meta: They charged the business with manipulating the classified ad market last month.

This month's end is when the third case regarding Meta's WhatsApp messaging service is anticipated to be resolved.

The Irish watchdog, which serves as Meta's lead European data privacy regulator due to the fact that its regional headquarters is in Dublin, fined the company 210 million euros for violating Facebook's EU data privacy rules and an additional 180 million euros for violating Instagram's EU data privacy rules.

The General Data Protection Regulation, or GDPR, the privacy regulations adopted by the 27-nation bloc in May 2018, is what led to the judgement.

Prior to this, Meta relied on users' informed consent to handle their personal data in order to deliver tailored or behavioural adverts to them that are based on their internet searches, the websites they visit, or the videos they watch.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Regulators in the 27-nation bloc of the European Union fined Facebook parent firm Meta hundreds of millions of euros for privacy breaches on Wednesday and banned the company from persuading users to accept tailored advertisements based on their online behaviour.

Regulators in the 27-nation bloc of the European Union fined Facebook parent firm Meta hundreds of millions of euros for privacy breaches on Wednesday and banned the company from persuading users to accept tailored advertisements based on their online behaviour. In two incidents that might upend Meta's business model of targeting people with adverts based on what they do online, Ireland's Data Protection Commission levied two fines totalling 390 million euros ($414 million). The business claims to be appealing. The European Union has some of the strongest privacy laws in the world, which have put pressure on Meta and other big tech corporations. Four further penalties totaling more than 900 million euros have already been levied against Meta by Irish regulators for data privacy violations since 2021, and several other lawsuits against other Silicon Valley businesses are still pending. The EU antitrust regulators in Brussels who are stretching their muscles against digital companies are another regulatory worry for Meta: They charged the business with manipulating the classified ad market last month. This month's end is when the third case regarding Meta's WhatsApp messaging service is anticipated to be resolved. The Irish watchdog, which serves as Meta's lead European data privacy regulator due to the fact that its regional headquarters is in Dublin, fined the company 210 million euros for violating Facebook's EU data privacy rules and an additional 180 million euros for violating Instagram's EU data privacy rules. The General Data Protection Regulation, or GDPR, the privacy regulations adopted by the 27-nation bloc in May 2018, is what led to the judgement. Prior to this, Meta relied on users' informed consent to handle their personal data in order to deliver tailored or behavioural adverts to them that are based on their internet searches, the websites they visit, or the videos they watch. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Meta hit with US$413 million fine over EU privacy breach

Facebook parent Meta has agreed to pay $725 million to settle a long-running privacy lawsuit that accused the social media giant of allowing third parties to access users' personal data.

However, Facebook has not yet admitted any wrongdoing as a part of the settlement which still needs approval by the US judge, AFP reported.&nbsp;

As per reports, it was claimed that Facebook reached a preliminary agreement in August but the amount was not announced. The amount was revealed on Thursday (Dec 22).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/mark-zuckerberg-defends-meta-in-front-of-antitrust-judge-545054">Also read |&nbsp;Mark Zuckerberg defends Meta before antitrust judge on bid for dominance in virtual reality segment</a>

The plaintiff's lawyers said in the filing, "The proposed settlement of $725,000,000 is the largest recovery ever achieved in a data privacy class action and the most Facebook has ever paid to resolve a private class action."

Meta's spokesperson said, "We pursued a settlement as it's in the best interest of our community and shareholders. Over the last three years, we revamped our approach to privacy and implemented a comprehensive privacy programme."

The lawsuit was filed&nbsp;in 2018 when Facebook was accused of violating privacy rules by sharing users' private data with third parties that included Cambridge Analytica firm from the UK that was also linked to former US President Trump's 2016 election campaign.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/bytedance-finds-former-tiktok-employees-hacked-data-of-2-us-journalists-545948">Also read |&nbsp;ByteDance finds former TikTok employees hacked data of two US journalists</a>

It was claimed that the information was used to turn US voters in favour of Trump.&nbsp;

In response to this, the firm was shut down then, only for collecting and using data of over 87 million users without their consent, the lawsuit alleged.&nbsp;

Since then, Facebook removed its access to users' data, restricted the amount of information available to developers and made it simple and easy for users to calibrate restrictions on personal data sharing.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies) 
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Facebook parent Meta has agreed to pay $725 million to settle a long-running privacy lawsuit that accused the social media giant of allowing third parties to access users' personal data.

Facebook parent Meta has agreed to pay $725 million to settle a long-running privacy lawsuit that accused the social media giant of allowing third parties to access users' personal data. However, Facebook has not yet admitted any wrongdoing as a part of the settlement which still needs approval by the US judge, AFP reported. As per reports, it was claimed that Facebook reached a preliminary agreement in August but the amount was not announced. The amount was revealed on Thursday (Dec 22). Also read | Mark Zuckerberg defends Meta before antitrust judge on bid for dominance in virtual reality segment The plaintiff's lawyers said in the filing, "The proposed settlement of $725,000,000 is the largest recovery ever achieved in a data privacy class action and the most Facebook has ever paid to resolve a private class action." Meta's spokesperson said, "We pursued a settlement as it's in the best interest of our community and shareholders. Over the last three years, we revamped our approach to privacy and implemented a comprehensive privacy programme." The lawsuit was filed in 2018 when Facebook was accused of violating privacy rules by sharing users' private data with third parties that included Cambridge Analytica firm from the UK that was also linked to former US President Trump's 2016 election campaign. Also read | ByteDance finds former TikTok employees hacked data of two US journalists It was claimed that the information was used to turn US voters in favour of Trump. In response to this, the firm was shut down then, only for collecting and using data of over 87 million users without their consent, the lawsuit alleged. Since then, Facebook removed its access to users' data, restricted the amount of information available to developers and made it simple and easy for users to calibrate restrictions on personal data sharing. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Facebook parent Meta agrees to pay $275 million to settle 2018 privacy lawsuit

Facebook parent Meta has agreed to pay $725 million to settle a class action lawsuit. The claim is that the social media giant gave third-party access to user data without their consent.

Facebook accused of violating privacy rules by sharing data, to pay $725 mn to settle suit

Meta's Mark Zuckerberg on Tuesday (December 20) defended the company's acquisition of a virtual reality fitness app before an antitrust judge. Zuckerberg argued that Meta was helping build the&nbsp;virtual reality industry, not dominate it. He testified in federal court in San Jose, California.&nbsp;

Zuckerberg argued that acquiring app maker Within Unlimited was "not that critical" to Meta's ambitions. He said that Meta was aiming at building communications tools and an app platform for apps from different developers.

On fitness apps, he said, "It's less important that we own the experiences than that they exist." He said he was keen to see other firms build key productivity and gaming apps to draw a mass audience to virtual and augmented reality.

World Business Watch: Meta stock value plunges 65% in 2022; loses $9.4 bn in first 9 months

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United States' Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has accused Meta of trying to buy its way to the top of Virtual Reality industry.

FTC lawyers kicked off the proceedings by asking him about an internal email Zuckerberg wrote in 2015 where he said he expected Meta to build "most of the apps and software services" for the VR industry.

Zuckerberg replied that major platform owners tend to build the most popular apps in their area of expertise, likening Meta's emphasis on communications to Microsoft Corp's focus on productivity.

Platform companies have built "the key apps, what they call the killer apps," Zuckerberg said, "but they're not the only apps available."

The FTC sued the Facebook and Instagram owner in July to stop the Within Unlimited deal and asked the judge to order a preliminary injunction, saying Meta's "campaign to conquer VR" began in 2014 when it acquired Oculus, a VR headset manufacturer.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-commission-charges-meta-of-breaching-eu-antitrust-rules-544575">European Commission finds Meta in breach of ‘EU antitrust rules'</a>

The trial is only one of many battles Meta is fighting against regulators globally over its alleged dominance in various markets. The European Commission on Monday said it had warned Meta of a possible antitrust breach related to online classified advertising.

The company said earlier on Tuesday that it does not expect to close the Within deal before Jan. 31 or until the day after the court rules on the FTC's request for a preliminary injunction.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Meta's Mark Zuckerberg on Tuesday (December 20) defended the company's acquisition of a virtual reality fitness app before an antitrust judge. Zuckerberg argued that Meta was helping build the virtual reality industry, not dominate it.

Meta's Mark Zuckerberg on Tuesday (December 20) defended the company's acquisition of a virtual reality fitness app before an antitrust judge. Zuckerberg argued that Meta was helping build the virtual reality industry, not dominate it. He testified in federal court in San Jose, California. Zuckerberg argued that acquiring app maker Within Unlimited was "not that critical" to Meta's ambitions. He said that Meta was aiming at building communications tools and an app platform for apps from different developers. On fitness apps, he said, "It's less important that we own the experiences than that they exist." He said he was keen to see other firms build key productivity and gaming apps to draw a mass audience to virtual and augmented reality. World Business Watch: Meta stock value plunges 65% in 2022; loses $9.4 bn in first 9 months × United States' Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has accused Meta of trying to buy its way to the top of Virtual Reality industry. FTC lawyers kicked off the proceedings by asking him about an internal email Zuckerberg wrote in 2015 where he said he expected Meta to build "most of the apps and software services" for the VR industry. Zuckerberg replied that major platform owners tend to build the most popular apps in their area of expertise, likening Meta's emphasis on communications to Microsoft Corp's focus on productivity. Platform companies have built "the key apps, what they call the killer apps," Zuckerberg said, "but they're not the only apps available." The FTC sued the Facebook and Instagram owner in July to stop the Within Unlimited deal and asked the judge to order a preliminary injunction, saying Meta's "campaign to conquer VR" began in 2014 when it acquired Oculus, a VR headset manufacturer. Also Read | European Commission finds Meta in breach of ‘EU antitrust rules' The trial is only one of many battles Meta is fighting against regulators globally over its alleged dominance in various markets. The European Commission on Monday said it had warned Meta of a possible antitrust breach related to online classified advertising. The company said earlier on Tuesday that it does not expect to close the Within deal before Jan. 31 or until the day after the court rules on the FTC's request for a preliminary injunction. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Mark Zuckerberg defends Meta before antitrust judge on bid for dominance in virtual reality segment

Meta’s stock value plunged 65% year-to-date, the biggest drop among the big five tech companies. Meta share price is around $119, down by over 60% in the last 1-year.

World Business Watch: Meta stock value plunges 65% in 2022; loses $9.4 bn in first 9 months

The parent company of Facebook, Meta, has "breached EU antitrust rules" in the social network’s online classified section, stated the European Commission (EC) in its preliminary finding released on Monday.&nbsp; &nbsp;

"The Commission takes issue with Meta tying its online classified ads service, Facebook Marketplace, to its personal social network, Facebook," said the EC in its statement. "The Commission is also concerned that Meta is imposing unfair trading conditions on Facebook Marketplace's competitors for its own benefit,” it added.

In the past, the EC has faced several run-ins with tech companies, including Meta, over the company’s practices.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/metas-targeted-advertisements-could-to-face-restrictions-in-the-eu-report-540691">Meta’s targeted advertisements could face restrictions in the EU: Report</a>

This year, the company’s policy arsenal was beefed up with EU legislation’s two new pieces, the Digital Markets Act and the Digital Services Act, that include huge financial penalties in case of infringement.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The acts will be brought into full force throughout 2023 and 2024. The announcement made by the EU on Monday was about Meta’s "suspected violations" of antitrust rules laid out by the EU and provides Meta with a chance to respond to the formal Statement of Objections of the commission.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The concerns raised emphasise on the way Facebook users are given automatic access by Meta to Facebook Marketplace "whether they want it or not".

The commission added that Facebook Marketplace competitors may face unfair disadvantages due to the link. It also raised concerns over unfair trading practices involved in Instagram and Facebook’s online classified ad services, which fall under the umbrella of Meta.

WATCH|&nbsp;Gravitas: Meta set to fire thousands of employees

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The commission said that user terms mentioned on those platforms allow Meta to use competitors’ ads-related data for boosting Facebook Marketplace.

If the concerns raised by the EU are proven right and evidence of infringement is found, Meta may have to 10% of its global annual turnover as a fine. &nbsp;&nbsp; 
On September 30, the worldwide revenue of Meta was $118 billion.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The parent company of Facebook, Meta, has "breached EU antitrust rules" in the social network’s online classified section, stated the European Commission (EC) in its preliminary finding released on Monday.

The parent company of Facebook, Meta, has "breached EU antitrust rules" in the social network’s online classified section, stated the European Commission (EC) in its preliminary finding released on Monday. "The Commission takes issue with Meta tying its online classified ads service, Facebook Marketplace, to its personal social network, Facebook," said the EC in its statement. "The Commission is also concerned that Meta is imposing unfair trading conditions on Facebook Marketplace's competitors for its own benefit,” it added. In the past, the EC has faced several run-ins with tech companies, including Meta, over the company’s practices. ALSO READ| Meta’s targeted advertisements could face restrictions in the EU: Report This year, the company’s policy arsenal was beefed up with EU legislation’s two new pieces, the Digital Markets Act and the Digital Services Act, that include huge financial penalties in case of infringement. The acts will be brought into full force throughout 2023 and 2024. The announcement made by the EU on Monday was about Meta’s "suspected violations" of antitrust rules laid out by the EU and provides Meta with a chance to respond to the formal Statement of Objections of the commission. The concerns raised emphasise on the way Facebook users are given automatic access by Meta to Facebook Marketplace "whether they want it or not". The commission added that Facebook Marketplace competitors may face unfair disadvantages due to the link. It also raised concerns over unfair trading practices involved in Instagram and Facebook’s online classified ad services, which fall under the umbrella of Meta. WATCH| Gravitas: Meta set to fire thousands of employees The commission said that user terms mentioned on those platforms allow Meta to use competitors’ ads-related data for boosting Facebook Marketplace. If the concerns raised by the EU are proven right and evidence of infringement is found, Meta may have to 10% of its global annual turnover as a fine. On September 30, the worldwide revenue of Meta was $118 billion. (With inputs from agencies)

European Commission finds Meta in breach of ‘EU antitrust rules'

Facebook's parent company meta has been sued for $2 billion. The social media platform is facing allegations that its algorithm helped fuel hate and violence during Ethiopia's civil war. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Son sues Meta over father's killing in Ethiopia

The technological competitors of Google on Thursday announced a project which will be aimed at making data sets required for building map features available for free. 
The world of online mapping is dominated by Alphabet-owned Google which provides its services to other platforms or companies and improves its other offerings like online advertising, using navigation and location capabilities.

Creating ripples in the Google-dominated market, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, TomTom and Meta have introduced “Overture Maps Foundation”, which is aimed at providing comprehensive mapping data freely to anyone who may need it for use, said non-profit Linux Foundation, in a press release.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-says-it-does-not-change-search-results-amid-hong-kong-anthem-row-543340">Google says it does not change search results amid Hong Kong anthem row</a>

"Mapping the physical environment and every community in the world, even as they grow and change, is a massively complex challenge that no one organization can manage," Linux Foundation executive director Jim Zemlin said. "Industry needs to come together to do this for the benefit of all,” he added.

The team of technological companies announced to work on Overture, did not include Google. However, it added that its goal is to increase membership for increasing the work’s progress. By mid-2023, the group of tech firms are expected to release their first mapping datasets.

"Immersive experiences, which understand and blend into your physical environment, are critical to the embodied internet of the future," said Erik Solem, engineering director of Maps at Meta Jan, in the press release.

WATCH|&nbsp;WION Fineprint: Google Chrome is most vulnerable browser in 2022

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"By delivering interoperable open map data, Overture provides the foundation for an open metaverse built by creators, developers, and businesses alike,” he added.

The Linux Foundation said that map data is used in applications for navigation, search, autonomous driving, games, logistics and more. The Overture map data will be provided as an open source, which will allow developers to not only use its data but also to build on it, said the Linux Foundation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The technological competitors of Google on Thursday announced a project which will be aimed at making data sets required for building map features available for free.

The technological competitors of Google on Thursday announced a project which will be aimed at making data sets required for building map features available for free. The world of online mapping is dominated by Alphabet-owned Google which provides its services to other platforms or companies and improves its other offerings like online advertising, using navigation and location capabilities. Creating ripples in the Google-dominated market, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, TomTom and Meta have introduced “Overture Maps Foundation”, which is aimed at providing comprehensive mapping data freely to anyone who may need it for use, said non-profit Linux Foundation, in a press release. ALSO READ| Google says it does not change search results amid Hong Kong anthem row "Mapping the physical environment and every community in the world, even as they grow and change, is a massively complex challenge that no one organization can manage," Linux Foundation executive director Jim Zemlin said. "Industry needs to come together to do this for the benefit of all,” he added. The team of technological companies announced to work on Overture, did not include Google. However, it added that its goal is to increase membership for increasing the work’s progress. By mid-2023, the group of tech firms are expected to release their first mapping datasets. "Immersive experiences, which understand and blend into your physical environment, are critical to the embodied internet of the future," said Erik Solem, engineering director of Maps at Meta Jan, in the press release. WATCH| WION Fineprint: Google Chrome is most vulnerable browser in 2022 "By delivering interoperable open map data, Overture provides the foundation for an open metaverse built by creators, developers, and businesses alike,” he added. The Linux Foundation said that map data is used in applications for navigation, search, autonomous driving, games, logistics and more. The Overture map data will be provided as an open source, which will allow developers to not only use its data but also to build on it, said the Linux Foundation. (With inputs from agencies)

Google’s rival tech firms join hands to make comprehensive mapping data

More than 40 accounts of an Indian firm CyberRoot Risk Advisory were taken down by Meta for providing hacking-for-hire services on its social media platforms.

Apart from that, about 900 fake accounts operated from China by an unknown entity on Instagram and Facebook were also removed, Meta said in its Threat Report on the Surveillance-for-Hire Industry released on December 15.

The company said that these accounts indulged in collecting data of people in Myanmar, India, Taiwan, the US and China, including military personnel, pro-democracy activists, government employees, politicians and journalists.

"We removed a network of more than 40 accounts on Facebook and Instagram operated by an Indian firm called CyberRoot Risk Advisory Private. Rather than directly sharing malware on our apps, this group's activity manifested primarily in social engineering and phishing, often intended to trick people into giving up their credentials to various online accounts across the internet," the report said.

Meta said that CyberRoot created fake accounts based on fictitious personalities in a bid to deceive the people they targeted. These fake accounts impersonated journalists, business executives and media personalities.

They also sometimes created accounts resembling the targeted people’s families and friends to deceive people, the report said.

"They were focused on business executives, lawyers, doctors, activists, journalists and members of the clergy in countries like Kazakhstan, Djibouti, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and Iceland," the report said.

The social media giant assured to weed out spyware vendors around the world, including in China, Russia, Israel, the US and India, who targeted people in about 200 countries and territories.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 

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More than 40 accounts of an Indian firm CyberRoot Risk Advisory were taken down by Meta for providing hacking-for-hire services on its social media platforms. Apart from that, about 900 fake accounts operated from China by an unknown entity on Instagram and Facebook were also removed, Meta said in its Threat Report on the Surveillance-for-Hire Industry released on December 15.

More than 40 accounts of an Indian firm CyberRoot Risk Advisory were taken down by Meta for providing hacking-for-hire services on its social media platforms. Apart from that, about 900 fake accounts operated from China by an unknown entity on Instagram and Facebook were also removed, Meta said in its Threat Report on the Surveillance-for-Hire Industry released on December 15. The company said that these accounts indulged in collecting data of people in Myanmar, India, Taiwan, the US and China, including military personnel, pro-democracy activists, government employees, politicians and journalists. "We removed a network of more than 40 accounts on Facebook and Instagram operated by an Indian firm called CyberRoot Risk Advisory Private. Rather than directly sharing malware on our apps, this group's activity manifested primarily in social engineering and phishing, often intended to trick people into giving up their credentials to various online accounts across the internet," the report said. Meta said that CyberRoot created fake accounts based on fictitious personalities in a bid to deceive the people they targeted. These fake accounts impersonated journalists, business executives and media personalities. They also sometimes created accounts resembling the targeted people’s families and friends to deceive people, the report said. "They were focused on business executives, lawyers, doctors, activists, journalists and members of the clergy in countries like Kazakhstan, Djibouti, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and Iceland," the report said. The social media giant assured to weed out spyware vendors around the world, including in China, Russia, Israel, the US and India, who targeted people in about 200 countries and territories. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Meta takes down 40 fake accounts of Indian firm, 900 from China for phishing

Surbhi Gupta, an engineer from India who recently appeared on Netflix's 'Indian Matchmaking,' was among the thousands of employees who lost their jobs during Facebook's parent company Meta's mass layoffs. 
 
Gupta was living a happy life in the USA until the morning she received a mail from her company Meta. Surbhi, who become a known face from the Netflix show, during her interview with BBC revealed that she was performing well at the work and was not expecting that this would happen to her as well. 
 
Sharing her distressing feelings with BBC, Surbhi said she felt like a breakup when she got the mail from the company. However, she was not fired from the company on an immediate basis. She's still working and is serving a notice period that will end sometime in January.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/from-pandemic-boom-to-lay-off-season-why-big-tech-companies-firing-thousands-of-employees-534471">From pandemic boom to layoff season: Why big tech firms are firing thousands of employees</a>

"At 6 am, I got the email. I couldn't access my computer or the office gym. It felt like a breakup," Surbhi said. 
 
"It felt like the Titanic was sinking because I was losing access to things one by one—workplace, then email, then laptop." 
 
She's an H1-B visa holder, so the company informed her earlier. As per the rules, the person would only be allowed to live in the United States for 60 days&nbsp;after he/she leaves their job. 
 
"My ability to work and stay in the US depends on my H1-B visa," she said.

<a href="wionews.com/technology/meta-boss-mark-zuckerberg-says-mass-lay-offs-to-begin-from-wednesday-morning-532418">Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg says mass layoffs to begin from Wednesday morning</a>

Due to mass layoffs and the holiday season, it's tough to find a job in the USA currently. ''My ability to work and stay in the US depends on my H1-B visa. I moved to the US in 2009 and I have worked very hard to build my career on my own strength and intellect. I have worked in prominent companies like Tesla, Intuit, etc., built great products, got top ratings, paid taxes, and contributed to the US economy for more than 15 years, but I feel that I am in the same place as far as permanent residency goes because of the limitations of the H1-B,'' Surbhi shared.&nbsp;

Talking further, Surbhi added: ''My parents taught me to never give up in life. They tell me to stay strong because I'm a person who can convert problems into opportunities. They tell me 'aur kuch accha mil jayega' [you'll find something better].'' 
 
Gupta has been staying in the USA since 2009. And recently she appeared on the famous Netflix show 'Indian Matchmaking', hosted by Sima aunty aka Sima Taparia. Not just this, she has also won the title of Miss Bharat-California in a 2018 beauty pageant.

Surbhi Gupta, an engineer from India who recently appeared on Netflix's 'Indian Matchmaking,' was among the thousands of employees who lost their jobs during Facebook's parent company Meta's mass layoffs.

Surbhi Gupta, an engineer from India who recently appeared on Netflix's 'Indian Matchmaking,' was among the thousands of employees who lost their jobs during Facebook's parent company Meta's mass layoffs. Gupta was living a happy life in the USA until the morning she received a mail from her company Meta. Surbhi, who become a known face from the Netflix show, during her interview with BBC revealed that she was performing well at the work and was not expecting that this would happen to her as well. Sharing her distressing feelings with BBC, Surbhi said she felt like a breakup when she got the mail from the company. However, she was not fired from the company on an immediate basis. She's still working and is serving a notice period that will end sometime in January. From pandemic boom to layoff season: Why big tech firms are firing thousands of employees "At 6 am, I got the email. I couldn't access my computer or the office gym. It felt like a breakup," Surbhi said. "It felt like the Titanic was sinking because I was losing access to things one by one—workplace, then email, then laptop." She's an H1-B visa holder, so the company informed her earlier. As per the rules, the person would only be allowed to live in the United States for 60 days after he/she leaves their job. "My ability to work and stay in the US depends on my H1-B visa," she said. Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg says mass layoffs to begin from Wednesday morning Due to mass layoffs and the holiday season, it's tough to find a job in the USA currently. ''My ability to work and stay in the US depends on my H1-B visa. I moved to the US in 2009 and I have worked very hard to build my career on my own strength and intellect. I have worked in prominent companies like Tesla, Intuit, etc., built great products, got top ratings, paid taxes, and contributed to the US economy for more than 15 years, but I feel that I am in the same place as far as permanent residency goes because of the limitations of the H1-B,'' Surbhi shared. Talking further, Surbhi added: ''My parents taught me to never give up in life. They tell me to stay strong because I'm a person who can convert problems into opportunities. They tell me 'aur kuch accha mil jayega' [you'll find something better].'' Gupta has been staying in the USA since 2009. And recently she appeared on the famous Netflix show 'Indian Matchmaking', hosted by Sima aunty aka Sima Taparia. Not just this, she has also won the title of Miss Bharat-California in a 2018 beauty pageant.

Surbhi Gupta, who appeared in Netflix's 'Indian Matchmaking,' was laid off by Meta, read her story here

In a series of decisions, European Union’s privacy regulators have said that Facebook and Instagram parent company Meta Platforms’ Inc should not require users to agree to personalised advertisements based on their digital activity, said a report by the Wall Street Journal. This could affect the company’s access to sell such ads which also reportedly contribute a significant amount to Meta’s revenue.&nbsp;

The personalised advertisements in question are the ones that the social media platforms show tp their users based on their activity, clicks and what they watch within Meta’s own apps. Notably, Meta users can opt out of ads based on their activity on other websites and apps, a provision that has been in place for years but is not applicable for ads data based on user activity on its own platforms.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-parent-meta-threatens-to-remove-news-from-platform-if-us-passes-media-bill-540386">Facebook parent Meta threatens to remove news from platform if US passes media bill</a>

This comes after the European Union privacy regulators approved a series of decisions, in line with their privacy laws, which cannot be evaded by Meta using their terms of service as a justification, said a person familiar with the matter to the WSJ. However, the board’s ruling which was approved on Monday has not been made public yet.&nbsp;

According to the report, if users are allowed to opt out of such targeted ads, platforms like Facebook and Instagram would have less access to user information which is used to build these ads, and people close to the company say these ads contribute significantly to the platforms’ revenue.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-and-eu-held-meet-to-resolve-trade-tensions-between-them-540647">U.S. and EU held meet to resolve trade tensions between them</a>

Notably, the EU does not plan on directly ordering Meta to change its advertising practices, as it plans to call upon Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DCP) to issue public orders and levy significant fines which would be in line with its decision, said the WSJ report, citing people familiar with the matter. Ireland is also home to Meta’s headquarters in the 27-country bloc. &nbsp;

However, Meta can appeal the potential Irish as well as the EU decision which would at least lead to suspension of the potentially lengthy litigation, but if it is upheld the company would have to make changes to its practices.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/meta-warns-one-million-users-about-potential-data-leak-through-malicious-apps-523435">Meta warns one million users about potential data leak through malicious apps</a>

Meta’s spokesperson told the WSJ, that EU law could allow for other legal justifications for its advertising practices and that it is too early to speculate since this is not the final decision. “We’ve engaged fully with the DPC on their inquiries and will continue to engage with them as they finalise their decision,” said the spokesperson. &nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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In a series of decisions, European Union’s privacy regulators have said that Facebook and Instagram parent company Meta Platforms’ Inc should not require users to agree to personalised advertisements based on their digital activity, said a report by the Wall Street Journal.

In a series of decisions, European Union’s privacy regulators have said that Facebook and Instagram parent company Meta Platforms’ Inc should not require users to agree to personalised advertisements based on their digital activity, said a report by the Wall Street Journal. This could affect the company’s access to sell such ads which also reportedly contribute a significant amount to Meta’s revenue. The personalised advertisements in question are the ones that the social media platforms show tp their users based on their activity, clicks and what they watch within Meta’s own apps. Notably, Meta users can opt out of ads based on their activity on other websites and apps, a provision that has been in place for years but is not applicable for ads data based on user activity on its own platforms. ALSO READ | Facebook parent Meta threatens to remove news from platform if US passes media bill This comes after the European Union privacy regulators approved a series of decisions, in line with their privacy laws, which cannot be evaded by Meta using their terms of service as a justification, said a person familiar with the matter to the WSJ. However, the board’s ruling which was approved on Monday has not been made public yet. According to the report, if users are allowed to opt out of such targeted ads, platforms like Facebook and Instagram would have less access to user information which is used to build these ads, and people close to the company say these ads contribute significantly to the platforms’ revenue. ALSO WATCH | U.S. and EU held meet to resolve trade tensions between them Notably, the EU does not plan on directly ordering Meta to change its advertising practices, as it plans to call upon Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DCP) to issue public orders and levy significant fines which would be in line with its decision, said the WSJ report, citing people familiar with the matter. Ireland is also home to Meta’s headquarters in the 27-country bloc. However, Meta can appeal the potential Irish as well as the EU decision which would at least lead to suspension of the potentially lengthy litigation, but if it is upheld the company would have to make changes to its practices. ALSO READ | Meta warns one million users about potential data leak through malicious apps Meta’s spokesperson told the WSJ, that EU law could allow for other legal justifications for its advertising practices and that it is too early to speculate since this is not the final decision. “We’ve engaged fully with the DPC on their inquiries and will continue to engage with them as they finalise their decision,” said the spokesperson. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Meta’s targeted advertisements could face restrictions in the EU: Report

Facebook parent Meta platforms Inc has warned that it will be forced to remove news from its platform entirely if the US Congress passed the Journalism Competition and Preservation Act. Meta argued that broadcasters benefitted by posting content on their platform. If passed, the act will make it easier for news companies to negotiate with tech giants like Meta and Alphabet for their content. Meta had taken a similar stance in Australia where a similar law was passed.

Meta spokesperson Andy Stone in a tweet said the Act fails to recognize that publishers and broadcasters put content on the platform because "it benefits their bottom line - not the other way around."

The law in Australia took effect in March 2021 after talks with the big tech firms led to a brief shutdown of Facebook news feeds in the country, has largely worked, a government report said.

Since the News Media Bargaining Code took effect, various tech firms including Meta and Alphabet had inked more than 30 deals with media outlets, compensating them for content which generated clicks and advertising dollars, the report added.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Facebook parent Meta platforms Inc has warned that it will be forced to remove news from its platform entirely if the US Congress passed the Journalism Competition and Preservation Act.

Facebook parent Meta platforms Inc has warned that it will be forced to remove news from its platform entirely if the US Congress passed the Journalism Competition and Preservation Act. Meta argued that broadcasters benefitted by posting content on their platform. If passed, the act will make it easier for news companies to negotiate with tech giants like Meta and Alphabet for their content. Meta had taken a similar stance in Australia where a similar law was passed. Meta spokesperson Andy Stone in a tweet said the Act fails to recognize that publishers and broadcasters put content on the platform because "it benefits their bottom line - not the other way around." The law in Australia took effect in March 2021 after talks with the big tech firms led to a brief shutdown of Facebook news feeds in the country, has largely worked, a government report said. Since the News Media Bargaining Code took effect, various tech firms including Meta and Alphabet had inked more than 30 deals with media outlets, compensating them for content which generated clicks and advertising dollars, the report added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Facebook parent Meta threatens to remove news from platform if US passes media bill

The New Zealand government said that it plans to introduce a law which would require big tech companies like Alphabet Inc’s Google and several platforms under the parent company Meta including Facebook to pay media outlets if they want local news content to show on their feeds. This comes after countries like Australia and Canada have implemented and proposed similar laws.&nbsp;

“New Zealand news media, particularly small regional and community newspapers, are struggling to remain financially viable as more advertising moves online,” said New Zealand’s Minister of Broadcasting Willie Jackson, in a statement, on Sunday.&nbsp;

The statement also referred to legislations in Australia and Canada and how the one to be proposed by New Zealand will be modelled along those lines. Jackson also said that he hoped this would incentivise digital platforms to negotiate with local media outlets and reach deals without government intervention.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-fails-to-detect-christchurch-attack-video-as-harmful-after-new-zealands-govt-reaches-out-538073">Twitter fails to detect Christchurch attack video as 'harmful', New Zealand's govt reaches out</a>

“It is critical that those benefiting from their news content actually pay for it,” said the minister. However, if no agreement is reached the law would mandate a negotiating process.&nbsp;

The new legislation will likely be passed after a vote in the New Zealand parliament, however, might receive some pushback from the big tech platforms who have campaigned against these laws in other countries as well.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-new-zealand-to-tax-farmers-for-burpy-cattle-486724">Gravitas: New Zealand to tax farmers for burpy cattle</a>

Notably, when Australia introduced and proposed these laws Facebook threatened to block their news from its platforms and moved to do so at one point in Canberra while the legislation was being debated. However, no such steps have been taken in Canada yet since it&nbsp;has also proposed a similar legislation.&nbsp;

On Monday, Meta’s regional policy, Mia Garlick, said that New Zealand does not understand the relationship between Facebook and news. She also noted that publishers control how and which content shows up on their platform and also that New Zealand fails to recognise the commercial current deals Meta has in the country, reported the Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-australia-hold-talks-following-news-ban-364938">Facebook, Australia hold talks following news ban</a>

On the other hand, Australia’s recent report about its law introduced in 2021, which gave the government the power to make the big tech companies negotiate with media outlets said that it largely worked.&nbsp;

 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The New Zealand government said that it plans to introduce a law which would require big tech companies like Alphabet Inc’s Google and several platforms under the parent company Meta including Facebook to pay media outlets if they want local news content to show on their feeds.

The New Zealand government said that it plans to introduce a law which would require big tech companies like Alphabet Inc’s Google and several platforms under the parent company Meta including Facebook to pay media outlets if they want local news content to show on their feeds. This comes after countries like Australia and Canada have implemented and proposed similar laws. “New Zealand news media, particularly small regional and community newspapers, are struggling to remain financially viable as more advertising moves online,” said New Zealand’s Minister of Broadcasting Willie Jackson, in a statement, on Sunday. The statement also referred to legislations in Australia and Canada and how the one to be proposed by New Zealand will be modelled along those lines. Jackson also said that he hoped this would incentivise digital platforms to negotiate with local media outlets and reach deals without government intervention. ALSO READ | Twitter fails to detect Christchurch attack video as 'harmful', New Zealand's govt reaches out “It is critical that those benefiting from their news content actually pay for it,” said the minister. However, if no agreement is reached the law would mandate a negotiating process. The new legislation will likely be passed after a vote in the New Zealand parliament, however, might receive some pushback from the big tech platforms who have campaigned against these laws in other countries as well. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: New Zealand to tax farmers for burpy cattle Notably, when Australia introduced and proposed these laws Facebook threatened to block their news from its platforms and moved to do so at one point in Canberra while the legislation was being debated. However, no such steps have been taken in Canada yet since it has also proposed a similar legislation. On Monday, Meta’s regional policy, Mia Garlick, said that New Zealand does not understand the relationship between Facebook and news. She also noted that publishers control how and which content shows up on their platform and also that New Zealand fails to recognise the commercial current deals Meta has in the country, reported the Wall Street Journal. ALSO READ | Facebook, Australia hold talks following news ban On the other hand, Australia’s recent report about its law introduced in 2021, which gave the government the power to make the big tech companies negotiate with media outlets said that it largely worked. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.