As the 2023 general election in Nigeria draws closer, the nation’s social media space is a buzz with various campaigns of the political parties. But will it really make an impact on the upcoming polls, if yes, then to what extent? WION correspondent Louisa Olaniyi finds out.

World of Africa: How will social media impact polls in Nigeria?

The largest discount store in Japan, Don Quijote also known as Donki, was forced to reverse its decision of replacing the mascot after it faced massive protests from its fans on social media.&nbsp;

Donki has more than 600 stores across the nation and is famous for selling multiple ranges of products at discounted prices. Donki's blue penguin mascot wearing a Santa hat 'Donpen' has become the store's identity.&nbsp;

Hence, when it was announced that Donki will replace Donpen it lead to a huge uproar over Japanese social media in the past week.&nbsp;

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-pay-people-to-have-babies-in-an-attempt-to-boost-declining-birth-rate-542318">Japan to pay people to have babies in an attempt to boost declining birth rate</a>

On Twitter, the store announced its decision to replace its penguin mascot with "Dojo-chan", which is an anthropomorphic representation of "do", a Japanese katakana character. No reason was stated for the change in its mascot.&nbsp;

The sudden decision to replace the mascot led to an outpour of angry reactions on social media. Few people posted their photos in Donpen onesies, while other people said that they will boycott Donki stores.

Meanwhile, a social media user started a poll asking people their preference for the mascot. The post got more than 33,000 clicks as Donpen emerged winner with 93% of the vote.

Don Quijote president Naoki Yoshida, meanwhile, said on Twitter that he failed to "understand the situation either" and had asked "relevant departments" to provide him with clarification.

WATCH|&nbsp;There is no end to the snow in Japan!

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After a few hours, Yoshida said that the company would continue with Donpen as the mascot.

"We have taken the opinions of many of you very seriously and have discussed them with our board members. As a result, it was decided that 'Donpen' would continue as the official character," he stated.

Pan Pacific International Holdings, the operator of Don Quijote, issued an apology and added that they appreciated the support of people for Donpen.

As per Donki's official website, Donpen's birthplace in Antarctica and he was raised in Tokyo. He loves "walks at night" and "it's rumoured his appearance changes", said the store.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The largest discount store in Japan, Don Quijote also known as Donki, was forced to reverse its decision of replacing the mascot after it faced massive protests from its fans on social media.

The largest discount store in Japan, Don Quijote also known as Donki, was forced to reverse its decision of replacing the mascot after it faced massive protests from its fans on social media. Donki has more than 600 stores across the nation and is famous for selling multiple ranges of products at discounted prices. Donki's blue penguin mascot wearing a Santa hat 'Donpen' has become the store's identity. Hence, when it was announced that Donki will replace Donpen it lead to a huge uproar over Japanese social media in the past week. ALSO READ| Japan to pay people to have babies in an attempt to boost declining birth rate On Twitter, the store announced its decision to replace its penguin mascot with "Dojo-chan", which is an anthropomorphic representation of "do", a Japanese katakana character. No reason was stated for the change in its mascot. The sudden decision to replace the mascot led to an outpour of angry reactions on social media. Few people posted their photos in Donpen onesies, while other people said that they will boycott Donki stores. Meanwhile, a social media user started a poll asking people their preference for the mascot. The post got more than 33,000 clicks as Donpen emerged winner with 93% of the vote. Don Quijote president Naoki Yoshida, meanwhile, said on Twitter that he failed to "understand the situation either" and had asked "relevant departments" to provide him with clarification. WATCH| There is no end to the snow in Japan! After a few hours, Yoshida said that the company would continue with Donpen as the mascot. "We have taken the opinions of many of you very seriously and have discussed them with our board members. As a result, it was decided that 'Donpen' would continue as the official character," he stated. Pan Pacific International Holdings, the operator of Don Quijote, issued an apology and added that they appreciated the support of people for Donpen. As per Donki's official website, Donpen's birthplace in Antarctica and he was raised in Tokyo. He loves "walks at night" and "it's rumoured his appearance changes", said the store. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan's discount store Donki reverses decision to replace mascot after uproar

TikTok has recently been scrutinised in Taiwan since the government banned its departments from using the Chinese-owned social media platform. Meanwhile, Taiwanese government also&nbsp;opened an investigation into TikTok parent company ByteDance for suspected illegal commercial operations on the island following a media report.&nbsp;

In a statement, Taiwan’s China-policy-making Mainland Affairs Council said that on December 9, they first came across suspicions of ByteDance operating a subsidiary to tout for business on the island, following a report by Taiwan's Liberty Times newspaper.&nbsp;

Responding to the media report, the council’s working group said there indeed was an alleged breach of the law referring to what the media report had called the company’s “illegal commercial operations” which the legal authorities are now investigating.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-mulls-banning-tiktok-alleges-latter-of-eroding-publics-confidence-in-govt-541880">Taiwan mulls banning TikTok, accuses it of eroding public's confidence in government</a>

The newspaper claims that ByteDance has set up a subsidiary look to expand its business on the island which is a breach of Taiwanese law passed three years ago which does not allow Chinese social media platforms to open commercial operations on the island.&nbsp;

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Furthermore, Taiwan also prohibits a wide range of Beijing's business operations including its social media platforms to its highly sought after chip manufacturing industry. In 2019, the Taiwanese government passed an anti-infiltration law in a bid to combat what they see as China's&nbsp;efforts to influence the island’s politics and democratic processes through funding politicians, media, and so on.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-senators-call-tiktok-a-massive-surveillance-tool-is-tiktok-spying-on-you-for-china-535961">US: Senators call TikTok a 'massive surveillance tool; Is TikTok spying on you for China?</a>

This also comes days after the island also banned Chinese apps including TikTok from government departments. They have also accused Beijing of using such apps “to carry out cognitive operations and infiltration against other countries” while highlighting the risk of the Chinese government collecting users’ personal information.&nbsp;

Additionally, Taiwan has also accused China of using social media to spread disinformation on the island which Beijing claims as its territory. While the short video platform still trails behind Meta’s Facebook and Instagram in terms of usage on the island it is becoming increasingly popular among the Taiwanese youth, said a report by Reuters citing market research companies.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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TikTok has recently been scrutinised in Taiwan since the government banned its departments from using the Chinese-owned social media platform. Meanwhile, Taiwanese government also opened an investigation into TikTok parent company ByteDance for suspected illegal commercial operations on the island following a media report.

TikTok has recently been scrutinised in Taiwan since the government banned its departments from using the Chinese-owned social media platform. Meanwhile, Taiwanese government also opened an investigation into TikTok parent company ByteDance for suspected illegal commercial operations on the island following a media report. In a statement, Taiwan’s China-policy-making Mainland Affairs Council said that on December 9, they first came across suspicions of ByteDance operating a subsidiary to tout for business on the island, following a report by Taiwan's Liberty Times newspaper. Responding to the media report, the council’s working group said there indeed was an alleged breach of the law referring to what the media report had called the company’s “illegal commercial operations” which the legal authorities are now investigating. ALSO READ | Taiwan mulls banning TikTok, accuses it of eroding public's confidence in government The newspaper claims that ByteDance has set up a subsidiary look to expand its business on the island which is a breach of Taiwanese law passed three years ago which does not allow Chinese social media platforms to open commercial operations on the island. × Furthermore, Taiwan also prohibits a wide range of Beijing's business operations including its social media platforms to its highly sought after chip manufacturing industry. In 2019, the Taiwanese government passed an anti-infiltration law in a bid to combat what they see as China's efforts to influence the island’s politics and democratic processes through funding politicians, media, and so on. ALSO WATCH | US: Senators call TikTok a 'massive surveillance tool; Is TikTok spying on you for China? This also comes days after the island also banned Chinese apps including TikTok from government departments. They have also accused Beijing of using such apps “to carry out cognitive operations and infiltration against other countries” while highlighting the risk of the Chinese government collecting users’ personal information. Additionally, Taiwan has also accused China of using social media to spread disinformation on the island which Beijing claims as its territory. While the short video platform still trails behind Meta’s Facebook and Instagram in terms of usage on the island it is becoming increasingly popular among the Taiwanese youth, said a report by Reuters citing market research companies. (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.

Taiwan opens probe into TikTok over suspected ‘illegal commercial operations’

Researchers have found that TikTok’s algorithms are promoting videos about suicide and eating disorders to vulnerable teens within minutes after creating an account, as concerns over the impact of social media on mental health rise.

The report, published by the non-profit Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) on Wednesday, in its findings claimed that a new TikTok user was exposed to harmful content in less than three minutes after creating an account. While it takes about five more minutes to find content on eating disorders.

These tests were done across the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia by creating eight accounts, where the minimum user age is 13.

These accounts liked content about body image and mental health, following which the app recommended videos about losing weight and self-harm, including ones featuring pictures of models and idealised body types, images of razor blades and discussions of suicide.

When the researchers created accounts with user names that suggested a particular vulnerability to eating disorders that included the words “lose weight” the accounts were fed even more harmful content.

“The results are every parent’s nightmare: young people’s feeds are bombarded with harmful, harrowing content that can have a significant cumulative impact on their understanding of the world around them, and their physical and mental health,” Imran Ahmed, CEO of the CCDH, said in the report.

“It’s like being stuck in a hall of distorted mirrors where you’re constantly being told you’re ugly, you’re not good enough, maybe you should kill yourself,” Ahmed added.

The report was strongly criticised by TikTok, whose spokesperson termed it an inaccurate depiction of the viewing experience on the platform.

“This activity and resulting experience does not reflect genuine behaviour or viewing experiences of real people,” the TikTok spokesperson told CNN.

“We regularly consult with health experts, remove violations of our policies, and provide access to supportive resources for anyone in need. We’re mindful that triggering content is unique to each individual and remain focused on fostering a safe and comfortable space for everyone, including people who choose to share their recovery journeys or educate others on these important topics.”

&nbsp;(With inputs from agencies)

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Researchers have found that TikTok’s algorithms are promoting videos about suicide and eating disorders to vulnerable teens within minutes after creating an account, as concerns over the impact of social media on mental health rise.

Researchers have found that TikTok’s algorithms are promoting videos about suicide and eating disorders to vulnerable teens within minutes after creating an account, as concerns over the impact of social media on mental health rise. The report, published by the non-profit Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) on Wednesday, in its findings claimed that a new TikTok user was exposed to harmful content in less than three minutes after creating an account. While it takes about five more minutes to find content on eating disorders. These tests were done across the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia by creating eight accounts, where the minimum user age is 13. These accounts liked content about body image and mental health, following which the app recommended videos about losing weight and self-harm, including ones featuring pictures of models and idealised body types, images of razor blades and discussions of suicide. When the researchers created accounts with user names that suggested a particular vulnerability to eating disorders that included the words “lose weight” the accounts were fed even more harmful content. “The results are every parent’s nightmare: young people’s feeds are bombarded with harmful, harrowing content that can have a significant cumulative impact on their understanding of the world around them, and their physical and mental health,” Imran Ahmed, CEO of the CCDH, said in the report. “It’s like being stuck in a hall of distorted mirrors where you’re constantly being told you’re ugly, you’re not good enough, maybe you should kill yourself,” Ahmed added. The report was strongly criticised by TikTok, whose spokesperson termed it an inaccurate depiction of the viewing experience on the platform. “This activity and resulting experience does not reflect genuine behaviour or viewing experiences of real people,” the TikTok spokesperson told CNN. “We regularly consult with health experts, remove violations of our policies, and provide access to supportive resources for anyone in need. We’re mindful that triggering content is unique to each individual and remain focused on fostering a safe and comfortable space for everyone, including people who choose to share their recovery journeys or educate others on these important topics.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

TikTok boosts harmful content on suicide, eating disorder within minutes of someone joining it: Study

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.

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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

China is tightening its grip on social media even further. New guidelines came into effect on Thursday. Now, the Chinese government will also monitor "likes" on social media. Neha Khanna brings you the details.

WION Fineprint | China tightens grip on social media

The artificial intelligence application Lensa-AI has been generating pictures and controversies. It has been accused of sexualising pictures and stealing artwork from artists online.

Gravitas: Lensa-AI pictures swarm social media

The W.H.O. made an alarming observation. They say that the Milk Formula industry has started targeting women with ads on social media even before they get pregnant. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Milk formula ads unethical?

Former Pakistan pacer and captain Wasim Akram is known for not mincing his words. Akram remains active in various aspects of the game and is known to call a spade a spade. Recently, Akram recalled the match-fixing accusations and revealed how he feels the current social media generation in Pakistan still believes him guilty of the serious allegation.&nbsp;

Speaking to Wide World of Sports, Akram slammed Pakistan fans, especially the social media generation, for disregarding his successful international career and thinking of him as a match-fixer. In addition, he spoke about&nbsp;the love and respect he receives from&nbsp;the people in India, Australia, England and West Indies.

"In Australia, England, West Indies and India, when they talk about the World XI, when they talk about the best bowler in the world, my name pops up but in Pakistan, this generation, this social media generation, they are the one who come down, every comment they send, they say, 'oh, he is a match fixer', not knowing what it was," said Akram. "I have passed that stage in my life where I have to worry about people," he stated asserted.

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Exclusive: Wasim Akram opens up on his career, Pakistan cricket and dealing with the 'match-fixing' tag. 🏏🇵🇰<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9WWOS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9WWOS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/jDUo0zhnwB">pic.twitter.com/jDUo0zhnwB</a>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chetan-sharma-led-selection-panel-ruined-virat-kohlis-captaincy-run-danish-kaneria-535788">Chetan Sharma-led selection panel tried to ruin Virat Kohli's career, says former Pakistan spinner</a>

It is to be noted that there were rumours of Akram trying to fix a game between Pakistan and New Zealand back in 1996. Further, his decision to pull out of Pakistan's quarter-final match versus arch-rivals India during the same year's World Cup made heads turn, with many questioning his absence.&nbsp;

To date, Akram remains one of the finest pacers to have ever graced the game. He represented Pakistan in 104 Tests, claiming 414 scalps, which remains the highest by a Pakistani bowler. In addition, he chipped in with as many as 502 wickets in 356 ODIs. He also led the Men in Green to the 1999 ODI WC final, where Australia hammered them by eight wickets.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan pacer and captain Wasim Akram is known for not mincing his words. Akram remains active in various aspects of the game and is known to call a spade a spade.

Former Pakistan pacer and captain Wasim Akram is known for not mincing his words. Akram remains active in various aspects of the game and is known to call a spade a spade. Recently, Akram recalled the match-fixing accusations and revealed how he feels the current social media generation in Pakistan still believes him guilty of the serious allegation. Speaking to Wide World of Sports, Akram slammed Pakistan fans, especially the social media generation, for disregarding his successful international career and thinking of him as a match-fixer. In addition, he spoke about the love and respect he receives from the people in India, Australia, England and West Indies. "In Australia, England, West Indies and India, when they talk about the World XI, when they talk about the best bowler in the world, my name pops up but in Pakistan, this generation, this social media generation, they are the one who come down, every comment they send, they say, 'oh, he is a match fixer', not knowing what it was," said Akram. "I have passed that stage in my life where I have to worry about people," he stated asserted. Exclusive: Wasim Akram opens up on his career, Pakistan cricket and dealing with the 'match-fixing' tag. 🏏🇵🇰#9WWOS #Cricket pic.twitter.com/jDUo0zhnwB — Wide World of Sports (@wwos) November 20, 2022 × Also read: Chetan Sharma-led selection panel tried to ruin Virat Kohli's career, says former Pakistan spinner It is to be noted that there were rumours of Akram trying to fix a game between Pakistan and New Zealand back in 1996. Further, his decision to pull out of Pakistan's quarter-final match versus arch-rivals India during the same year's World Cup made heads turn, with many questioning his absence. To date, Akram remains one of the finest pacers to have ever graced the game. He represented Pakistan in 104 Tests, claiming 414 scalps, which remains the highest by a Pakistani bowler. In addition, he chipped in with as many as 502 wickets in 356 ODIs. He also led the Men in Green to the 1999 ODI WC final, where Australia hammered them by eight wickets.

In Pakistan, this social media generation refers to me as match-fixer, says Sultan of Swing Wasim Akram

On Wednesday, Hong Kong’s Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), detained four people who allegedly urged others to cast blank votes or not vote during the Legislative Council elections in December last year. The move was seen as a violation of the elections ordinance amended last year which makes it illegal to incite others to boycott a poll.&nbsp;

According to the ICAC, those detained were between the ages of 29 to 58 and had supposedly reposted or displayed on their respective social media pages posts from democracy activists like former lawmaker Ted Hui Chi-fung, ex-district councillor Yau Man-chun or activist Sunny Cheung Kwan-yang.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/hong-kong-is-back-but-only-for-some-531775">Hong Kong is back, but only for some</a>

The agency added that the material had “incited others to cast blank votes or not to vote.” Notably, democracy activist Cheung and former district councillor Man-chun are overseas. Among the four suspects detained are physiotherapist Wong Chi-yan (42) and Mabel Yick (58) are accused of sharing content by former legislator Hui.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the 44-year-old graphic designer, Wu Hong-ki and the 29-year-old, finance dealer Kwok Kin-chiu shared the content originally posted by the two activists overseas.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/low-voter-turnout-witnessed-for-hong-kongs-first-patriots-only-election-438421">Low voter turnout witnessed for Hong Kong's first 'patriots only' election</a>

In 2021, the Legco passed an amendment which reads, “inciting another person not to vote, or to cast an invalid vote, by activity in public during [an] election period”. If convicted the four people, in line with this amendment, can face up to three years in jail and a maximum fine of HK$200,000 ($25,000).&nbsp;

This came after China’s overhaul of Hong Kong’s electoral system in a bid to ensure only “patriots” were in positions of power in the city, reported the South China Morning Post. The December elections were the first city-wide election since the amendment was passed. In a statement, the IACA said that arrest warrants were issued against the three original authors last year.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-hong-kong-election-under-revamped-system-to-be-largely-uncontested-405219">First Hong Kong election under revamped system to be largely uncontested</a>

Notably, it is not illegal for people to cast a void ballot or even refuse to vote. However, since Beijing’s new system has been imposed all candidates are required to be vetted for political loyalty prior to the election, effectively barring anyone from the city’s traditional pro-democracy opposition to contest. The turnout at last year’s overhauled “patriots” hit a record low amid crackdowns on the city’s freedoms by China.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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On Wednesday, Hong Kong’s Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), detained four people who allegedly urged others to cast blank votes or not vote during the Legislative Council elections in December last year.

On Wednesday, Hong Kong’s Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), detained four people who allegedly urged others to cast blank votes or not vote during the Legislative Council elections in December last year. The move was seen as a violation of the elections ordinance amended last year which makes it illegal to incite others to boycott a poll. According to the ICAC, those detained were between the ages of 29 to 58 and had supposedly reposted or displayed on their respective social media pages posts from democracy activists like former lawmaker Ted Hui Chi-fung, ex-district councillor Yau Man-chun or activist Sunny Cheung Kwan-yang. ALSO READ: Hong Kong is back, but only for some The agency added that the material had “incited others to cast blank votes or not to vote.” Notably, democracy activist Cheung and former district councillor Man-chun are overseas. Among the four suspects detained are physiotherapist Wong Chi-yan (42) and Mabel Yick (58) are accused of sharing content by former legislator Hui. On the other hand, the 44-year-old graphic designer, Wu Hong-ki and the 29-year-old, finance dealer Kwok Kin-chiu shared the content originally posted by the two activists overseas. ALSO WATCH: Low voter turnout witnessed for Hong Kong's first 'patriots only' election In 2021, the Legco passed an amendment which reads, “inciting another person not to vote, or to cast an invalid vote, by activity in public during [an] election period”. If convicted the four people, in line with this amendment, can face up to three years in jail and a maximum fine of HK$200,000 ($25,000). This came after China’s overhaul of Hong Kong’s electoral system in a bid to ensure only “patriots” were in positions of power in the city, reported the South China Morning Post. The December elections were the first city-wide election since the amendment was passed. In a statement, the IACA said that arrest warrants were issued against the three original authors last year. ALSO READ: First Hong Kong election under revamped system to be largely uncontested Notably, it is not illegal for people to cast a void ballot or even refuse to vote. However, since Beijing’s new system has been imposed all candidates are required to be vetted for political loyalty prior to the election, effectively barring anyone from the city’s traditional pro-democracy opposition to contest. The turnout at last year’s overhauled “patriots” hit a record low amid crackdowns on the city’s freedoms by China. (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.

Hong Kong’s anti-graft agency charges four people for reposting election boycott calls

Let us take a look at stories generating interest across WION's social media channels.

Trending on WION: Twitter calls back some employees it fired, says they got laid off 'by mistake'

The T20 World Cup 2022 match between Pakistan and Bangladesh was a virtual knockout clash as the winner was guaranteed a place in the semi-finals. With a lot at stake for both sides, Bangladesh skipper Shakib al Hasan’s dismissal has created a lot of controversy among the cricket fans. The wicket proved to be crucial as Pakistan went on to claim the encounter by five wickets.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-four-semi-finalists-confirmed-as-pakistan-beat-bangladesh-531623" hreflang="en">T20 World Cup 2022: Four semi-finalists confirmed as Pakistan beat Bangladesh</a>

During the 11th over of the match, Shakib al Hasan was dismissed on the very first ball of his innings as he was judged LBW off the bowling of Shan Masood. Bangladesh did not take a review but the replays showed that the ball came in contact with the edge of the bat before hitting the pads.

Pictures and videos of the dismissal were all over social media within minutes of the incident and several users on Twitter and Facebook criticised the umpire for committing a mistake.

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Shakib al Hasan was clearly not out. Cheating by Third Umpire <a href="https://t.co/bVvYgPObPC">pic.twitter.com/bVvYgPObPC</a>
— Angry Foofa 🏹 (@AngryFoofa) <a href="https://twitter.com/AngryFoofa/status/1589121185400631296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The match was expected to be a dead rubber but the shocking defeat of South Africa at the hands of Netherlands meant that it was all up for grabs for the two Asian teams. Bangladesh started the match well with Najmul Hossain Shanto scoring a brilliant half century. However, Shaheen Afridi ended up with four wickets to halt their progress and restrict them to a modest total of 128.

Pakistan will now take on New Zealand in the semi-finals of the competition while India will face England after they defeated Zimbabwe in the final match of the Group of 12.

The T20 World Cup 2022 match between Pakistan and Bangladesh was a virtual knockout clash as the winner was guaranteed a place in the semi-finals. With a lot at stake for both sides, Bangladesh skipper Shakib al Hasan’s dismissal has created a lot of controversy among the cricket fans.

The T20 World Cup 2022 match between Pakistan and Bangladesh was a virtual knockout clash as the winner was guaranteed a place in the semi-finals. With a lot at stake for both sides, Bangladesh skipper Shakib al Hasan’s dismissal has created a lot of controversy among the cricket fans. The wicket proved to be crucial as Pakistan went on to claim the encounter by five wickets. Also read | T20 World Cup 2022: Four semi-finalists confirmed as Pakistan beat Bangladesh During the 11th over of the match, Shakib al Hasan was dismissed on the very first ball of his innings as he was judged LBW off the bowling of Shan Masood. Bangladesh did not take a review but the replays showed that the ball came in contact with the edge of the bat before hitting the pads. Pictures and videos of the dismissal were all over social media within minutes of the incident and several users on Twitter and Facebook criticised the umpire for committing a mistake. Shakib al Hasan was clearly not out. Cheating by Third Umpire pic.twitter.com/bVvYgPObPC — Angry Foofa 🏹 (@AngryFoofa) November 6, 2022 × The match was expected to be a dead rubber but the shocking defeat of South Africa at the hands of Netherlands meant that it was all up for grabs for the two Asian teams. Bangladesh started the match well with Najmul Hossain Shanto scoring a brilliant half century. However, Shaheen Afridi ended up with four wickets to halt their progress and restrict them to a modest total of 128. Pakistan will now take on New Zealand in the semi-finals of the competition while India will face England after they defeated Zimbabwe in the final match of the Group of 12.

T20 World Cup 2022: Shakib Al Hasan's controversial dismissal leaves social media shocked

Vietnam has tightened regulations pertaining to "false" content on social media platforms. Such content&nbsp;will now have to be taken down within 24 hours instead of 48 hours previously. Vietnam's information minister made an announcement about it on Friday (November 4). With the new regulations in place, Vietnam has become world's most stringently controlled regime&nbsp;for social media firms. The move is likely to strengthen ruling Community Party's position.&nbsp;

Minister of information and communications Nguyen Manh Hung told parliament there was risk that "false news, if it is handled in a slow manner, will spread very widely."

Reuters had previously reported government's plans to bring in the new regulations, as well as rules that very sensitive information has to be taken down within three hours.

Most governments do not have laws imposing the taking down of content on social media paltforms, but Vietnam's move comes amid intensifying crackdowns on online content in some parts of the world.

Hung claimed that penalties for spreading misinformation in Vietnam were only one-tenth the level of other countries in the region.

"The ministry will propose to the government an increase in administrative fines to a level that is high enough to deter the public," he said.

Speaking to the legislature, Hung proposed to completely deal with "News-lisation", a term used by authorities to describe when people are misled into thinking that social media accounts are authorised news outlets, by 2023.

(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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Vietnam has tightened regulations pertaining to "false" content on social media platforms. Such content will now have to be taken down within 24 hours instead of 48 hours previously.

Vietnam has tightened regulations pertaining to "false" content on social media platforms. Such content will now have to be taken down within 24 hours instead of 48 hours previously. Vietnam's information minister made an announcement about it on Friday (November 4). With the new regulations in place, Vietnam has become world's most stringently controlled regime for social media firms. The move is likely to strengthen ruling Community Party's position. Minister of information and communications Nguyen Manh Hung told parliament there was risk that "false news, if it is handled in a slow manner, will spread very widely." Reuters had previously reported government's plans to bring in the new regulations, as well as rules that very sensitive information has to be taken down within three hours. Most governments do not have laws imposing the taking down of content on social media paltforms, but Vietnam's move comes amid intensifying crackdowns on online content in some parts of the world. Hung claimed that penalties for spreading misinformation in Vietnam were only one-tenth the level of other countries in the region. "The ministry will propose to the government an increase in administrative fines to a level that is high enough to deter the public," he said. Speaking to the legislature, Hung proposed to completely deal with "News-lisation", a term used by authorities to describe when people are misled into thinking that social media accounts are authorised news outlets, by 2023. (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 ×

Vietnam tightens rules for content on social media, move may help regime

Elon Musk has said that Twitter will charge $8 monthly to Twitter users who want a blue tick by their name indicating a verified account as he seeks to boost subscriptions and make the social media network less reliant on ads.

Elon Musk: Twitter will charge $8 per month for Blue Tick

Elon Musk is making electric cars, shooting people into orbit populating Mars, building underground tunnels to solve traffic problems and now he also owns Twitter.

WION Business News | Elon Musk: Tech visionary turned social media king

As top executives of Twitter pack their bags in the wake of Elon Musk's takeover, there are reports that the micro-blogging site’s co-founder Jack Dorsey is testing another social network app rivalling the blue bird.

According to People, a week before Musk finalised his acquisition deal, the 45-year-old former CEO released a press release stating that he is seeking beta testers for his decentralized social app Bluesky.

"The next step is to&nbsp;start testing the protocol. Distributed protocol development is a tricky process," the company shared in a news release last Tuesday.

"It requires coordination from many parties once a network is deployed, so we're going to start in private beta to iron out issues."

"As we beta test, we'll continue to iterate on the protocol specs and share details about how it works. When it's ready, we'll move to the open beta," the company’s statement said, sharing a link to sign up for the&nbsp;beta test's waitlist.

In the press release, the company said that the new app will use an Authenticated Transfer Protocol&nbsp;(AT Protocol), which is a federated social network run by multiple sites instead of a single site.

"The word 'Bluesky' evokes a wide-open space of possibility. It was the original name for this project before it took shape, and continues to be the name of our company," the release stated. "We're calling the application we're building Bluesky because it will be a portal to the world of possibility on top of the AT Protocol," it said.

Last week, Dorsey in his Twitter post said that Bluesky will act as "a competitor to any company trying to own the underlying fundamentals for social media or the data of the people using it"

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It’s a competitor to any company trying to own the underlying fundamentals for social media or the data of the people using it
— jack (@jack) <a href="https://twitter.com/jack/status/1582465456165638144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Bluesky was founded in 2019 to help develop a Twitter-like decentralised concept for the social media giant.

"The biggest and long-term goal is to build a durable and open protocol for public conversation," Dorsey wrote in a Q&amp;A at the time.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As top executives of Twitter pack their bags in the wake of Elon Musk's takeover, there are reports that the micro-blogging site’s co-founder Jack Dorsey is testing another social network app rivalling the blue bird.

As top executives of Twitter pack their bags in the wake of Elon Musk's takeover, there are reports that the micro-blogging site’s co-founder Jack Dorsey is testing another social network app rivalling the blue bird. According to People, a week before Musk finalised his acquisition deal, the 45-year-old former CEO released a press release stating that he is seeking beta testers for his decentralized social app Bluesky. "The next step is to start testing the protocol. Distributed protocol development is a tricky process," the company shared in a news release last Tuesday. "It requires coordination from many parties once a network is deployed, so we're going to start in private beta to iron out issues." "As we beta test, we'll continue to iterate on the protocol specs and share details about how it works. When it's ready, we'll move to the open beta," the company’s statement said, sharing a link to sign up for the beta test's waitlist. In the press release, the company said that the new app will use an Authenticated Transfer Protocol (AT Protocol), which is a federated social network run by multiple sites instead of a single site. "The word 'Bluesky' evokes a wide-open space of possibility. It was the original name for this project before it took shape, and continues to be the name of our company," the release stated. "We're calling the application we're building Bluesky because it will be a portal to the world of possibility on top of the AT Protocol," it said. Last week, Dorsey in his Twitter post said that Bluesky will act as "a competitor to any company trying to own the underlying fundamentals for social media or the data of the people using it" It’s a competitor to any company trying to own the underlying fundamentals for social media or the data of the people using it — jack (@jack) October 18, 2022 × Bluesky was founded in 2019 to help develop a Twitter-like decentralised concept for the social media giant. "The biggest and long-term goal is to build a durable and open protocol for public conversation," Dorsey wrote in a Q&A at the time. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Jack Dorsey to take on Elon Musk’s Twitter with new app Bluesky

The face of an ant is not something that most people have seen but it has become a center of a lot of attention thanks to a picture taken by Lithuanian photographer Eugenijus Kavaliauskas. The picture, which won a prestigious prize at a Nikon photography competition, introduced many people to a magnified image of an ant’s face which has left them both fascinated as well as “horrified”.

The wildlife photographer submitted the picture for the competition under the “microscopic photography” category. It showed the microscopic image of the face with the eyes and teeth of the ant being in special focus. It was one of the rare occasions when the subject was properly captured.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-pair-of-climate-activists-throw-mashed-potatoes-at-monets-les-meules-painting-527880" hreflang="en">A pair of 'climate activists' throw mashed potatoes at Monet's Les Meules painting</a>

The picture was honoured as an “image of distinction” with a number of experts praising the “innovation” of the subject as well as the details captured by the photographer.

While the photograph received a lot of praise both from the experts as well as online, there were several people who were disturbed by the picture and even called it “horrifying”. The image became viral online within a few hours and the topic became the subject of fascination for the social media.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ayodhya-deepotsav-scripts-new-guinness-world-record-by-lighting-over-15-million-diyas-527854" hreflang="en">India: Ayodhya Deepotsav scripts new Guinness World Record by lighting over 1.5 million diyas</a>

The top prize went to Grigorii Timin of the University of Geneva who submitted an image of the embryonic hand of a Madagascar gecko, according to a report on CNN.

"Masterfully blending imaging technology and artistic creativity, Timin utilized high-resolution microscopy and image-stitching to capture this species of Phelsuma grandis day gecko," Nikon said. &nbsp;

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The face of an ant is not something that most people have seen but it has become a center of a lot of attention thanks to a picture taken by Lithuanian photographer Eugenijus Kavaliauskas.

The face of an ant is not something that most people have seen but it has become a center of a lot of attention thanks to a picture taken by Lithuanian photographer Eugenijus Kavaliauskas. The picture, which won a prestigious prize at a Nikon photography competition, introduced many people to a magnified image of an ant’s face which has left them both fascinated as well as “horrified”. The wildlife photographer submitted the picture for the competition under the “microscopic photography” category. It showed the microscopic image of the face with the eyes and teeth of the ant being in special focus. It was one of the rare occasions when the subject was properly captured. Also read | A pair of 'climate activists' throw mashed potatoes at Monet's Les Meules painting The picture was honoured as an “image of distinction” with a number of experts praising the “innovation” of the subject as well as the details captured by the photographer. While the photograph received a lot of praise both from the experts as well as online, there were several people who were disturbed by the picture and even called it “horrifying”. The image became viral online within a few hours and the topic became the subject of fascination for the social media. Also read | India: Ayodhya Deepotsav scripts new Guinness World Record by lighting over 1.5 million diyas The top prize went to Grigorii Timin of the University of Geneva who submitted an image of the embryonic hand of a Madagascar gecko, according to a report on CNN. "Masterfully blending imaging technology and artistic creativity, Timin utilized high-resolution microscopy and image-stitching to capture this species of Phelsuma grandis day gecko," Nikon said.

Magnified picture of an ant's face wins prize, leaves social media 'horrified'

American rapper Kanye West has proposed to buy Parler, the social media platform popular among US conservatives. Nashville-based Parler said it expects the deal to close during the fourth quarter of 2022.

Kanye West to buy right-wing social media app Parler

The Ukraine war has been raging for over eight months. While Russian forces continue to advance elsewhere, Ukrainian counteroffensives are still making progress.

On the internet, however, it's a fairly one-sided conversation.

"This is a meme nation," says Olena, a Kyiv entrepreneur who manages teams of social media volunteers.

"If this was a war of memes, we would be winning."

Her real name is not Olena. She has requested anonymity because of the delicate nature of the work she and her colleagues perform for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elon-musk-spacex-will-keep-funding-starlink-internet-service-in-ukraine-525810">Ukrainian</a> defence ministry.

Her teams are always working, responding within hours to news from all around the nation, and creating snappy videos, frequently set to music, for the ministry's viewers both domestically and overseas.

Olena's five-person international team focusses their messaging in the same way that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky customises addresses for foreign parliaments to take into consideration regional history, culture, and sensibilities.

A June video honouring Britain for its military support featured scenes of Shakespeare, David Bowie, Lewis Hamilton, and a montage of British-supplied anti-tank weapons in action, together with music by Gustav Holst and The Clash.

More recently, a video&nbsp;with the message "Romantic gestures take many forms" was released in response to French President Emmanuel Macron's decision to give Caesar self-propelled guns.

Perhaps inevitable, the images of red flowers, chocolates, the Paris skyline, and then the sound of guns were set to Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin's frantic Je T'aime Moi Non Plus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-liz-truss-economic-plan-was-a-mistake-says-biden-525756">UK PM Liz Truss' economic plan was a 'mistake', says Biden</a>

The team's efforts have resulted in 1.5 million followers worldwide for the defence ministry's Twitter account. More than a million people have watched some of the videos, reported the BBC.&nbsp;

Their most popular video, which was posted in August following many unexplained attacks on Russian targets in the annexation of Crimea, has amassed 2.2 million views. It was set to the Bananarama song Cruel Summer and made fun of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/terrorist-attack-on-russian-military-site-in-russia-kills-11-525750">Russians</a> for visiting the peninsula for vacation.

The squad has no shortage of material because social media is awash with footage showing Russian military failures. However, they have discovered what works and what doesn't by trial and error.

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The Ukraine war has been raging for over eight months. While Russian forces continue to advance elsewhere, Ukrainian counteroffensives are still making progress.

The Ukraine war has been raging for over eight months. While Russian forces continue to advance elsewhere, Ukrainian counteroffensives are still making progress. On the internet, however, it's a fairly one-sided conversation. "This is a meme nation," says Olena, a Kyiv entrepreneur who manages teams of social media volunteers. "If this was a war of memes, we would be winning." Her real name is not Olena. She has requested anonymity because of the delicate nature of the work she and her colleagues perform for the Ukrainian defence ministry. Her teams are always working, responding within hours to news from all around the nation, and creating snappy videos, frequently set to music, for the ministry's viewers both domestically and overseas. Olena's five-person international team focusses their messaging in the same way that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky customises addresses for foreign parliaments to take into consideration regional history, culture, and sensibilities. A June video honouring Britain for its military support featured scenes of Shakespeare, David Bowie, Lewis Hamilton, and a montage of British-supplied anti-tank weapons in action, together with music by Gustav Holst and The Clash. More recently, a video with the message "Romantic gestures take many forms" was released in response to French President Emmanuel Macron's decision to give Caesar self-propelled guns. Perhaps inevitable, the images of red flowers, chocolates, the Paris skyline, and then the sound of guns were set to Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin's frantic Je T'aime Moi Non Plus. Also read | UK PM Liz Truss' economic plan was a 'mistake', says Biden The team's efforts have resulted in 1.5 million followers worldwide for the defence ministry's Twitter account. More than a million people have watched some of the videos, reported the BBC. Their most popular video, which was posted in August following many unexplained attacks on Russian targets in the annexation of Crimea, has amassed 2.2 million views. It was set to the Bananarama song Cruel Summer and made fun of Russians for visiting the peninsula for vacation. The squad has no shortage of material because social media is awash with footage showing Russian military failures. However, they have discovered what works and what doesn't by trial and error. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukraine strides far ahead of Russia, is winning the war of memes on social media

A content creator in Singapore has been fined and jailed for breaking obscenity laws, making it the country’s first conviction against adult site users.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Titus Low was fined 3,000 Singaporean dollars ($2,087) and jailed for three weeks for sharing obscene photos and videos on adult website OnlyFans.&nbsp;

The court penalised 22-year-old Tow after he pleaded guilty of violating a police order that restricted his access to the adult subscription platform while he was under investigation for allegedly breaking obscenity laws.&nbsp;

According to CNN, which has quoted Tow’s lawyer, the 22-year-old man’s jail term will begin on October 26.&nbsp;

In Singapore, the sale and production of pornographic materials are illegal, but watching porn is not.

However, despite such stringent laws in place that seeks to restrict access to adult content online, OnlyFans has managed to amass a huge number of subscribers in the conservative southeast Asian country.&nbsp;

Low came under scrutiny after a woman filed a police complaint in December last year after she found his obscene images on her 12-year-old niece's phone.

After the complaint, the police seized his phone and iPad, restricting Low's access to his OnlyFans account.&nbsp; But the 22-year-old model somehow regained his account and started sharing adult videos again. Apart from that, he had also created a second account.&nbsp;

He had joined the platform only in April this year, where he quickly became one of its biggest local stars.&nbsp;

Speaking to BBC last year, Low said that he had to be dependent&nbsp;on the site as it was his chief source of income.&nbsp;

According to local media reports, Low has over 210,000 followers on social media and is a well-known local influencer. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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A content creator in Singapore has been fined and jailed for breaking obscenity laws, making it the country’s first conviction against adult site users. On Wednesday, Titus Low was fined 3,000 Singaporean dollars ($2,087) and jailed for three weeks for sharing obscene photos and videos on adult website OnlyFans.

A content creator in Singapore has been fined and jailed for breaking obscenity laws, making it the country’s first conviction against adult site users. On Wednesday, Titus Low was fined 3,000 Singaporean dollars ($2,087) and jailed for three weeks for sharing obscene photos and videos on adult website OnlyFans. The court penalised 22-year-old Tow after he pleaded guilty of violating a police order that restricted his access to the adult subscription platform while he was under investigation for allegedly breaking obscenity laws. According to CNN, which has quoted Tow’s lawyer, the 22-year-old man’s jail term will begin on October 26. In Singapore, the sale and production of pornographic materials are illegal, but watching porn is not. However, despite such stringent laws in place that seeks to restrict access to adult content online, OnlyFans has managed to amass a huge number of subscribers in the conservative southeast Asian country. Low came under scrutiny after a woman filed a police complaint in December last year after she found his obscene images on her 12-year-old niece's phone. After the complaint, the police seized his phone and iPad, restricting Low's access to his OnlyFans account. But the 22-year-old model somehow regained his account and started sharing adult videos again. Apart from that, he had also created a second account. He had joined the platform only in April this year, where he quickly became one of its biggest local stars. Speaking to BBC last year, Low said that he had to be dependent on the site as it was his chief source of income. According to local media reports, Low has over 210,000 followers on social media and is a well-known local influencer. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Singapore: 22-year-old influencer jailed for using adult website OnlyFans 

Sources familiar with TikTok's parent company&nbsp;ByteDance confirmed that the firm has recently begun talks with other music apps and platforms to expand its streaming service worldwide to compete with music industry leaders like Spotify.&nbsp;

ByteDance recently introduced 'Resso,' a music service that is currently available in Asia (India, Indonesia) and Brazil as well. The company is aiming to extend its streaming worldwide and to make it easier for customers to stream on the short-video app, TikTok. The United States won't be a part of this, The Wall Street Journal reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-take-upto-760-of-donations-displaced-families-in-syria-camps-beg-for-report-524718">Also read |&nbsp;TikTok takes 70% of profits from videos of families begging in Syria refugee camps: Report</a>

The parent company is currently negotiating with a rising music industry service.&nbsp;

The short-video app has helped several songs become megahits by going viral. The audience on the social media platform increased tremendously during the Covid lockdown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-all-you-need-to-know-about-latest-tiktok-trend-skin-cycling-524341/amp">Also read |&nbsp;All you need to know about latest TikTok trend Skin Cycling</a>

<ul>
</ul>

To expand its service, the Chinese streaming app needs to reach an agreement on negotiating terms with all major music labels as revenue through Resso has been a matter of concern as it is difficult to make money through it.

Resso offers both an on-demand subscription tier and a free, ad-supported tier, much like Spotify's "freemium." Currently, it appears that the company will have to work for its expansion.&nbsp;It is also working on how to work with TikTok to expand its services and earn money.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Sources familiar with TikTok's parent company ByteDance confirmed that the firm has recently begun talks with other music apps and platforms to expand its streaming service worldwide to compete with music industry leaders like Spotify.

Sources familiar with TikTok's parent company ByteDance confirmed that the firm has recently begun talks with other music apps and platforms to expand its streaming service worldwide to compete with music industry leaders like Spotify. ByteDance recently introduced 'Resso,' a music service that is currently available in Asia (India, Indonesia) and Brazil as well. The company is aiming to extend its streaming worldwide and to make it easier for customers to stream on the short-video app, TikTok. The United States won't be a part of this, The Wall Street Journal reported. Also read | TikTok takes 70% of profits from videos of families begging in Syria refugee camps: Report The parent company is currently negotiating with a rising music industry service. The short-video app has helped several songs become megahits by going viral. The audience on the social media platform increased tremendously during the Covid lockdown. Also read | All you need to know about latest TikTok trend Skin Cycling To expand its service, the Chinese streaming app needs to reach an agreement on negotiating terms with all major music labels as revenue through Resso has been a matter of concern as it is difficult to make money through it. Resso offers both an on-demand subscription tier and a free, ad-supported tier, much like Spotify's "freemium." Currently, it appears that the company will have to work for its expansion. It is also working on how to work with TikTok to expand its services and earn money. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

TikTok's parent company ByteDance plans to expand its music services globally

TikTok has again made the headlines. The video platform is reported to have profited by up to 70% from live-streamed videos of refugees begging online for donations.

As per a BBC report,&nbsp; displaced individuals in Syria camps have been using the video sharing platform to ask for donations, which has resulted in an increase of at least 70 per cent in streams.&nbsp;

Children are live-streaming on TikTok for hours asking for money and digital gifts with few followers. Viewers have been seeing similar posts and videos in their feeds for months now. &nbsp; 
 
TikTok said that it will take strong and appropriate action against the exploitative begging.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/experts-issue-warning-after-tiktoks-latest-one-chip-challenge-lands-schoolkid-in-hospital-with-seizures-519828">Also read |&nbsp;Experts issue warning after TikTok's latest 'one chip challenge' lands schoolkid in hospital with seizures</a>

Now if we think of how are people actually accessing the media platform, it's because of 'Tiktok middlemen.' &nbsp;The middlemen provide people in camps with phones and user accounts to access the app. It was claimed that the main purpose of doing this was to encourage people to spend more time streaming.&nbsp;

Mostly UK-based SIMs were used as they were considered to be the most kind gifters. Though these gifts are virtual it actually costs real money to the sender, as they can be withdrawn as cash.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-fines-tiktok-for-violating-russian-laws-on-lgbt-propaganda-522328">Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;Russia fines TikTok for violating laws on 'LGBT propaganda', Twitch penalised for hosting Arestovych interview</a>

The BBC investigative report claimed that the streams earned up to nearly $1,000 per hour, but the families in camps received a small amount. &nbsp;When inquired, the company said that first this type of content is not allowed to be streamed and second, its commission on digital gifts is less than 70 per cent. However, it did not reveal the exact amount. BBC carried out an experiment where it donated $106, which resulted that only $33 in the Syrian account and 69 per cent was taken by TikTok.&nbsp;

The reduction doesn't end here, the middlemen take 35 per cent of the remaining and then a further reduction of 10 per cent is made when the money was withdrawn from a local shop which left the family with only $19.

In a conversation with BBC, former rugby player Keith Mason donated $330 during his live stream, but later when he came to know about the reduction, he regarded that the company is being unfair to the families.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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TikTok has again made the headlines. The video platform is reported to have profited by up to 70% from live-streamed videos of refugees begging online for donations.

TikTok has again made the headlines. The video platform is reported to have profited by up to 70% from live-streamed videos of refugees begging online for donations. As per a BBC report, displaced individuals in Syria camps have been using the video sharing platform to ask for donations, which has resulted in an increase of at least 70 per cent in streams. Children are live-streaming on TikTok for hours asking for money and digital gifts with few followers. Viewers have been seeing similar posts and videos in their feeds for months now. TikTok said that it will take strong and appropriate action against the exploitative begging. Also read | Experts issue warning after TikTok's latest 'one chip challenge' lands schoolkid in hospital with seizures Now if we think of how are people actually accessing the media platform, it's because of 'Tiktok middlemen.' The middlemen provide people in camps with phones and user accounts to access the app. It was claimed that the main purpose of doing this was to encourage people to spend more time streaming. Mostly UK-based SIMs were used as they were considered to be the most kind gifters. Though these gifts are virtual it actually costs real money to the sender, as they can be withdrawn as cash. Also read | Russia fines TikTok for violating laws on 'LGBT propaganda', Twitch penalised for hosting Arestovych interview The BBC investigative report claimed that the streams earned up to nearly $1,000 per hour, but the families in camps received a small amount. When inquired, the company said that first this type of content is not allowed to be streamed and second, its commission on digital gifts is less than 70 per cent. However, it did not reveal the exact amount. BBC carried out an experiment where it donated $106, which resulted that only $33 in the Syrian account and 69 per cent was taken by TikTok. The reduction doesn't end here, the middlemen take 35 per cent of the remaining and then a further reduction of 10 per cent is made when the money was withdrawn from a local shop which left the family with only $19. In a conversation with BBC, former rugby player Keith Mason donated $330 during his live stream, but later when he came to know about the reduction, he regarded that the company is being unfair to the families. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

TikTok takes 70% of profits from videos of families begging in Syria refugee camps: Report

A recent study published in the journal, Marriage and Family Review, outlines some of the main reasons that people choose to postpone or renounce childbearing in Finland. This includes the idea of a correlation between time spent online and people’s wish to have children.&nbsp;

The study examined some of the reasons given by people to postpone childbearing during the fertility decline in Finland in the 2010s, said the paper. Therefore, the data used for this research is from the two recent Finnish Family Barometers in 2015 and 2018. The representative survey was conducted by Väestöliitto, the Family Federation of Finland, said the reports.&nbsp;

Using this data, the paper titled “Reasons to Postpone Childbearing during Fertility Decline in Finland,” tried to explain the sharp decline in the birth rate in Finland. The study analysed the data collected from at least 3,468 people who were aged between 20-44.&nbsp;

The participants were asked about their desire to have children, half of whom said that they did not want or no longer want to have children. On the other hand, 36.6% of people have postponed their plans to have kids. While 13.4% said that they don’t know whether they plan to have children or more children.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-study-finds-social-media-is-depriving-many-10-year-olds-of-a-nights-sleep-per-week-516337">UK study finds social media is depriving many 10-year-olds of a night's sleep per week</a>

The study showed three main groups of reasons why people deferred or decided not to have children, including uncertain lifestyle situations, lifestyle preferences and completed fertility, indicated one of the authors of the study, Kateryna Savelieva of the University of Helsinki, Finland.&nbsp;

“Uncertain life situations emerged as the strongest factor behind the decision to postpone or not to have children,” said the paper, which comprised of many uncertainties ranging from the financial situation, own or spouse’s unfinished education to the size of the apartment and so on.&nbsp;

The second reason most people reportedly gave was that they preferred to stick to their current lifestyle which led them to postpone their decision to have children or not have children. Lastly, the third reason was completed fertility which indicated that people have already completed their childbearing goals.&nbsp;

According to the study, there was a correlation between people who cited their desire to not change their lifestyle and those who were concerned about insecurity in their situation being the ones that use social media the most and are more inclined towards their work.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/children-increasingly-using-social-media-to-escape-negative-feelings-reports-515408">Children increasingly using social media to escape 'negative feelings': Report&nbsp;</a>

Overall, participants that have a stable lifestyle, are infrequent social media users, and are less work-oriented were less likely to report uncertainties toward childbearing. On the other hand, participants, particularly women with no children, who use social media frequently and are more work-oriented were the ones that listed lifestyle preferences as the reason for postponing having children or having more children, said the report. Additionally, factors like financial crisis and unemployment also have an impact on the fertility rate, says the study.&nbsp;

This study also shows the first systematic analysis of reasons with which adults have explained their decision to postpone or renounce childbearing in Finland during the 2010s fertility decline, said a media report. Notably, the data was collected prior to the Covid-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, therefore, does not account for how these attitudes may have changed in recent times of crisis.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A recent study published in the journal, Marriage and Family Review, outlines some of the main reasons that people choose to postpone or renounce childbearing in Finland.

A recent study published in the journal, Marriage and Family Review, outlines some of the main reasons that people choose to postpone or renounce childbearing in Finland. This includes the idea of a correlation between time spent online and people’s wish to have children. The study examined some of the reasons given by people to postpone childbearing during the fertility decline in Finland in the 2010s, said the paper. Therefore, the data used for this research is from the two recent Finnish Family Barometers in 2015 and 2018. The representative survey was conducted by Väestöliitto, the Family Federation of Finland, said the reports. Using this data, the paper titled “Reasons to Postpone Childbearing during Fertility Decline in Finland,” tried to explain the sharp decline in the birth rate in Finland. The study analysed the data collected from at least 3,468 people who were aged between 20-44. The participants were asked about their desire to have children, half of whom said that they did not want or no longer want to have children. On the other hand, 36.6% of people have postponed their plans to have kids. While 13.4% said that they don’t know whether they plan to have children or more children. ALSO READ: UK study finds social media is depriving many 10-year-olds of a night's sleep per week The study showed three main groups of reasons why people deferred or decided not to have children, including uncertain lifestyle situations, lifestyle preferences and completed fertility, indicated one of the authors of the study, Kateryna Savelieva of the University of Helsinki, Finland. “Uncertain life situations emerged as the strongest factor behind the decision to postpone or not to have children,” said the paper, which comprised of many uncertainties ranging from the financial situation, own or spouse’s unfinished education to the size of the apartment and so on. The second reason most people reportedly gave was that they preferred to stick to their current lifestyle which led them to postpone their decision to have children or not have children. Lastly, the third reason was completed fertility which indicated that people have already completed their childbearing goals. According to the study, there was a correlation between people who cited their desire to not change their lifestyle and those who were concerned about insecurity in their situation being the ones that use social media the most and are more inclined towards their work. ALSO READ: Children increasingly using social media to escape 'negative feelings': Report Overall, participants that have a stable lifestyle, are infrequent social media users, and are less work-oriented were less likely to report uncertainties toward childbearing. On the other hand, participants, particularly women with no children, who use social media frequently and are more work-oriented were the ones that listed lifestyle preferences as the reason for postponing having children or having more children, said the report. Additionally, factors like financial crisis and unemployment also have an impact on the fertility rate, says the study. This study also shows the first systematic analysis of reasons with which adults have explained their decision to postpone or renounce childbearing in Finland during the 2010s fertility decline, said a media report. Notably, the data was collected prior to the Covid-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, therefore, does not account for how these attitudes may have changed in recent times of crisis. (With inputs from agencies)

Finland: Study shows link between time spent online and desire to have children

Snapchat is planning to introduce a set of parental controls for its users in India. This comes a few weeks after the parental controls were launched in the United States.

Tech Talk| Social media and teen safety: Snapchat rolls out parental controls in India

Kanye West gets banned from Twitter just hours after he returned from hiatus. He was blocked for making posts seen as Anti-Semitic. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

WION Fineprint | Kanye West gets blocked from social media

A 14-year-old girl in the UK died from an act of self-harm while suffering from the 'negative effects of online content', a coroner said. The case has once again put social media in the limelight, with questions being raised on the negative impact it is having on the youth.

Molly Russell was "exposed to material that may have influenced her in a negative way and, in addition, what had started as a depression became a more serious depressive illness," Andrew Walker ruled at North London Coroner's Court.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/onlyfans-bribed-meta-employees-to-put-rival-creators-on-terror-watchlist-505358">OnlyFans bribed Meta employees to put rival creators on terror watchlist</a>

Walker said that it would not be "safe" to conclude that it was suicide, and the teenager, in fact, died from an "act of self-harm while suffering depression". Some of the content she viewed was "particularly graphic" and "normalised her condition", said Walker.

Russell saved, shared or liked 16,300 posts on Instagram in the six-month period before her death, with 2,100 related to depression, self-harm or suicide, the inquest was told.

Russell, from Harrow in northwest London, died in November 2017. Her family started a campaign highlighting the dangers of social media.

"Molly was a thoughtful, sweet-natured, caring, inquisitive, selfless, beautiful individual -- although a few words cannot possibly encapsulate our wonderful girl," her father Ian said in a statement.

"We have heard a senior Meta (Instagram parent company) executive describe this deadly stream of content the platform's algorithms pushed to Molly as 'safe' and not contravening the platform's policies.

"If this demented trail of life-sucking content was safe, my daughter Molly would probably still be alive and instead of being a bereaved family of four, there would be five of us looking forward to a life full of purpose and promise that lay ahead for our adorable Molly."

"It's time the toxic corporate culture at the heart of the world's biggest social media platform changed," he urged.

During a week-long hearing, family's lawyer, Oliver Sanders, asked Elizabeth Lagone, the head of health and wellbeing at Meta, why the platform allowed children to use it when it was "allowing people to put potentially harmful content on it".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/why-facebooks-move-fast-and-break-things-era-still-haunts-it-499784">Why Facebook's 'move fast and break things' era still haunts it?</a>

"You are not a parent, you are just a business in America. You have no right to do that. The children who are opening these accounts don't have the capacity to consent to this," he said.

Lagone apologised after being shown footage that Russell had viewed.&nbsp;

Children's charity NSPCC said the ruling "must be a turning point", stressing that any delay to a government bill dealing with online safety "would be inconceivable to parents".

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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A 14-year-old girl in the UK died from an act of self-harm while suffering from the 'negative effects of online content', a coroner said. The case has once again put social media in the limelight, with questions being raised on the negative impact it is having on the youth.

A 14-year-old girl in the UK died from an act of self-harm while suffering from the 'negative effects of online content', a coroner said. The case has once again put social media in the limelight, with questions being raised on the negative impact it is having on the youth. Molly Russell was "exposed to material that may have influenced her in a negative way and, in addition, what had started as a depression became a more serious depressive illness," Andrew Walker ruled at North London Coroner's Court. Also Read | OnlyFans bribed Meta employees to put rival creators on terror watchlist Walker said that it would not be "safe" to conclude that it was suicide, and the teenager, in fact, died from an "act of self-harm while suffering depression". Some of the content she viewed was "particularly graphic" and "normalised her condition", said Walker. Russell saved, shared or liked 16,300 posts on Instagram in the six-month period before her death, with 2,100 related to depression, self-harm or suicide, the inquest was told. Russell, from Harrow in northwest London, died in November 2017. Her family started a campaign highlighting the dangers of social media. "Molly was a thoughtful, sweet-natured, caring, inquisitive, selfless, beautiful individual -- although a few words cannot possibly encapsulate our wonderful girl," her father Ian said in a statement. "We have heard a senior Meta (Instagram parent company) executive describe this deadly stream of content the platform's algorithms pushed to Molly as 'safe' and not contravening the platform's policies. "If this demented trail of life-sucking content was safe, my daughter Molly would probably still be alive and instead of being a bereaved family of four, there would be five of us looking forward to a life full of purpose and promise that lay ahead for our adorable Molly." "It's time the toxic corporate culture at the heart of the world's biggest social media platform changed," he urged. During a week-long hearing, family's lawyer, Oliver Sanders, asked Elizabeth Lagone, the head of health and wellbeing at Meta, why the platform allowed children to use it when it was "allowing people to put potentially harmful content on it". Also Read | Why Facebook's 'move fast and break things' era still haunts it? "You are not a parent, you are just a business in America. You have no right to do that. The children who are opening these accounts don't have the capacity to consent to this," he said. Lagone apologised after being shown footage that Russell had viewed. Children's charity NSPCC said the ruling "must be a turning point", stressing that any delay to a government bill dealing with online safety "would be inconceivable to parents". (With inputs from agencies)

'Negative effects of online content' led to UK teen's death, says Coroner's Court

A village in Sangli district of Maharashtra, India is showing its residents the way out of the chaos of electronic gadgets and social media platforms in the modern lifestyle by encouraging them to go for a digital detox everyday.

India: Maharashtra village observes 'digital detox' for 1.5 hours everyday

Short video sharing platform TikTok is staring at a $29 million fine in UK for endangering and failing to protect the identities of children on its platform. The China-based company was found wanting after an investigation carried out by UK's Information Commissioner Office (ICO).&nbsp;

The regulator in its provisional view asserted that the Bytedance-led platform may have processed data of children under the age of 13 without parental consent.&nbsp;Reportedly, Information Commissioner John Edwards in his findings said TikTok fell short of meeting data privacy protection requirements.

"We all want children to be able to learn and experience the digital world, but with proper data privacy protections. Companies providing digital services have a legal duty to put those protections in place, but our provisional view is that TikTok fell short of meeting that requirement," said Edwards.

Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-wanted-to-open-tiktok-account-to-promote-propaganda-report-501963">&nbsp;China wanted to open TikTok account to promote propaganda: Report</a>

Consequently, the company has been slapped with a 'notice of intent' which is dubbed as a precursor to the fine, which could total up to $29 million or four per cent of the company's global annual turnover. In the process, TikTok has become one of the first social media companies to be issued such a formal notice.

TikTok in response said it will challenge the notice, "This Notice of Intent, covering the period May 2018-July 2020, is provisional and as the ICO itself has stated, no final conclusions can be drawn at this time," said a company spokesperson.

"While we respect the ICO's role in safeguarding privacy in the UK, we disagree with the preliminary views expressed and intend to formally respond to the ICO in due course," the company added.&nbsp;

This is not the first time that TikTok has been asked to cough up fines related to child privacy matters. In&nbsp;early 2019, the company agreed to pay $5.7 million to US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to settle accusations that it had collected personal information of children on its platform by illegal means.&nbsp;

Read more<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-under-fire-for-promoting-weight-loss-aids-to-children-518566">:&nbsp;TikTok under fire for promoting weight loss aids to children</a>

According to the US Department of Justice, TikTok had violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), under which websites and social media platforms such as TikTok are required to obtain parental consent before harvesting the personal information of minors.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Short video sharing platform TikTok is staring at a $29 million fine in UK for endangering and failing to protect the identities of children on its platform. The China-based company was found wanting after an investigation carried out by UK's Information Commissioner Office (ICO).

Short video sharing platform TikTok is staring at a $29 million fine in UK for endangering and failing to protect the identities of children on its platform. The China-based company was found wanting after an investigation carried out by UK's Information Commissioner Office (ICO). The regulator in its provisional view asserted that the Bytedance-led platform may have processed data of children under the age of 13 without parental consent. Reportedly, Information Commissioner John Edwards in his findings said TikTok fell short of meeting data privacy protection requirements. "We all want children to be able to learn and experience the digital world, but with proper data privacy protections. Companies providing digital services have a legal duty to put those protections in place, but our provisional view is that TikTok fell short of meeting that requirement," said Edwards. Read more: China wanted to open TikTok account to promote propaganda: Report Consequently, the company has been slapped with a 'notice of intent' which is dubbed as a precursor to the fine, which could total up to $29 million or four per cent of the company's global annual turnover. In the process, TikTok has become one of the first social media companies to be issued such a formal notice. TikTok in response said it will challenge the notice, "This Notice of Intent, covering the period May 2018-July 2020, is provisional and as the ICO itself has stated, no final conclusions can be drawn at this time," said a company spokesperson. "While we respect the ICO's role in safeguarding privacy in the UK, we disagree with the preliminary views expressed and intend to formally respond to the ICO in due course," the company added. This is not the first time that TikTok has been asked to cough up fines related to child privacy matters. In early 2019, the company agreed to pay $5.7 million to US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to settle accusations that it had collected personal information of children on its platform by illegal means. Read more: TikTok under fire for promoting weight loss aids to children According to the US Department of Justice, TikTok had violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), under which websites and social media platforms such as TikTok are required to obtain parental consent before harvesting the personal information of minors. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

TikTok could face $29 million in fines in UK for endangering children's privacy

Social media addiction is becoming more commonplace. Teenagers are among the biggest consumers of social media. According to a new study, primary school children are losing one full night's sleep a week because they stay up late on social media sites.

Tech Talk: Social media platforms impacting children's health

A US&nbsp;appeals court on Friday upheld a Texas law that bars large social media companies from banning or censoring users based on "viewpoint," a setback for technology industry groups that say the measure would turn platforms into bastions of dangerous content.

The 3-0 ruling by the 5th US&nbsp;Circuit Court of Appeals, based in New Orleans, sets up the potential for the US&nbsp;Supreme Court to rule on the law, which conservatives and right-wing commentators have said is necessary to prevent "Big Tech" from suppressing their views.

"Today we reject the idea that corporations have a freewheeling First Amendment right to censor what people say," Judge Andrew Oldham, an appointee of former President Donald Trump, wrote in the ruling.

The Texas law was passed by the state's Republican-led legislature and signed by its Republican governor.

The tech groups that challenged the law and were on the losing end of Friday's ruling include NetChoice and the Computer &amp; Communications Industry Association, which count Meta Platforms' Facebook, Twitter and Alphabet Inc's YouTube as members.

They have sought to preserve rights to regulate user content when they believe it may lead to violence, citing concerns that unregulated platforms will enable extremists such as Nazi supporters, terrorists and hostile foreign governments.

The association on Friday said it disagreed with forcing private companies to give equal treatment to all viewpoints. "'God Bless America' and 'Death to America' are both viewpoints, and it is unwise and unconstitutional for the state of Texas to compel a private business to treat those the same," it said in a statement.

Some conservatives have labeled the social media companies' practices abusive, pointing to Twitter's permanent suspension of Trump from the platform shortly after the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol by a mob of his supporters. Twitter had cited "the risk of further incitement of violence" as a reason.

The Texas law forbids social media companies with at least 50 million monthly active users from acting to "censor" users based on "viewpoint," and allows either users or the Texas attorney general to sue to enforce the law.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Twitter hailed the ruling as "massive victory for the constitution and free speech."

Because the 5th Circuit ruling conflicts with part of a ruling by the 11th Circuit, the aggrieved parties have a stronger case for petitioning the Supreme Court to hear the matter.

In May, the 11th Circuit, based in Atlanta, found that most of a similar Florida law violates the companies' free speech rights and cannot be enforced.

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A US appeals court on Friday upheld a Texas law that bars large social media companies from banning or censoring users based on "viewpoint," a setback for technology industry groups that say the measure would turn platforms into bastions of dangerous content.

A US appeals court on Friday upheld a Texas law that bars large social media companies from banning or censoring users based on "viewpoint," a setback for technology industry groups that say the measure would turn platforms into bastions of dangerous content. The 3-0 ruling by the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals, based in New Orleans, sets up the potential for the US Supreme Court to rule on the law, which conservatives and right-wing commentators have said is necessary to prevent "Big Tech" from suppressing their views. "Today we reject the idea that corporations have a freewheeling First Amendment right to censor what people say," Judge Andrew Oldham, an appointee of former President Donald Trump, wrote in the ruling. The Texas law was passed by the state's Republican-led legislature and signed by its Republican governor. The tech groups that challenged the law and were on the losing end of Friday's ruling include NetChoice and the Computer & Communications Industry Association, which count Meta Platforms' Facebook, Twitter and Alphabet Inc's YouTube as members. They have sought to preserve rights to regulate user content when they believe it may lead to violence, citing concerns that unregulated platforms will enable extremists such as Nazi supporters, terrorists and hostile foreign governments. The association on Friday said it disagreed with forcing private companies to give equal treatment to all viewpoints. "'God Bless America' and 'Death to America' are both viewpoints, and it is unwise and unconstitutional for the state of Texas to compel a private business to treat those the same," it said in a statement. Some conservatives have labeled the social media companies' practices abusive, pointing to Twitter's permanent suspension of Trump from the platform shortly after the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol by a mob of his supporters. Twitter had cited "the risk of further incitement of violence" as a reason. The Texas law forbids social media companies with at least 50 million monthly active users from acting to "censor" users based on "viewpoint," and allows either users or the Texas attorney general to sue to enforce the law. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Twitter hailed the ruling as "massive victory for the constitution and free speech." Because the 5th Circuit ruling conflicts with part of a ruling by the 11th Circuit, the aggrieved parties have a stronger case for petitioning the Supreme Court to hear the matter. In May, the 11th Circuit, based in Atlanta, found that most of a similar Florida law violates the companies' free speech rights and cannot be enforced.

US appeals court rejects big tech's right to regulate online speech

The US is extremely worried about the American data falling into the hands of the Chinese govt. Reportedly, Chinese individuals could access TikTok's US user data. Now, the social media company's chief has testified before the US Senate.

US lawmakers grill TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat executives about ties with China

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