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Google has launched a free training programme for small-to-medium sized news publishers. The programme will help establish their online business who have more recently started developing their digital platforms.

The programme, Digital Growth Programme under the Google News Initiative (GNI), is available in six countries - &nbsp;Spain, the UK, Germany, Italy, Poland and France. 
 
"It's all in local languages, and many more countries to follow in the coming months," the tech giant said in a statement. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-extends-fact-checking-to-image-search-307990">Also Read: Google extends fact-checking to image search</a>

Last month, Google announced a new licensing programme to pay publishers for high-quality content. Google has signed partnerships with Spiegel Group in Germany, Schwartz media in Australia, and Diarios Associados in Brazil. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-to-pay-select-publishers-for-high-quality-news-content-308540">Also Read: Google to pay select publishers for 'high quality' news content</a>

This programme will help participating publishers monetize their content through an enhanced storytelling experience. "Google will also offer to pay for free access for users to read paywalled articles on a publisher's site," the statement said.

The programme comes amid growing calls for internet tech titans to pay for content.

(With inputs from agencies)

Google has launched a free training programme for small-to-medium sized news publishers. The programme will help establish their online business who have more recently started developing their digital platforms.

Google has launched a free training programme for small-to-medium sized news publishers. The programme will help establish their online business who have more recently started developing their digital platforms. The programme, Digital Growth Programme under the Google News Initiative (GNI), is available in six countries - Spain, the UK, Germany, Italy, Poland and France. "It's all in local languages, and many more countries to follow in the coming months," the tech giant said in a statement. Also Read: Google extends fact-checking to image search Last month, Google announced a new licensing programme to pay publishers for high-quality content. Google has signed partnerships with Spiegel Group in Germany, Schwartz media in Australia, and Diarios Associados in Brazil. Also Read: Google to pay select publishers for 'high quality' news content This programme will help participating publishers monetize their content through an enhanced storytelling experience. "Google will also offer to pay for free access for users to read paywalled articles on a publisher's site," the statement said. The programme comes amid growing calls for internet tech titans to pay for content. (With inputs from agencies)

Google launches free digital training for small news publishers

In the wake of ban imposed on 59 Chinese apps, Instagram is planning to expand its new video-music remix feature Reels which offer TikTok-like functionalities to India.

However, no date has been announced for the launch of the app in India as of now.

"Reels is a fun, creative way for people to both express themselves and be entertained,” said a Facebook spokesperson. The app was first launched in Brazil and recently in France and Germany 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tiktok-ban-chingari-app-crosses-10-million-downloads-on-play-store-310467">Also Read: India bans 59 Chinese apps including TikTok, Shareit citing national security</a>

Instagram Reels is a video-editing tool to allow users to create short,15-second video clips set to music or other audio and share those on the platform.

Last month, the government of India took an unprecedented step and decided to ban at least 59 Chinese apps. Among the apps that have banned are Tik Tok, SHarit, Kwai, UC Browser, Baidu map, Shein, clash of Kings, DU battery saver, Helo, Likee, YouCam makeup, Mi Community, CM Browsers, Virus Cleaner, Apus Browser, among others. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/us-looking-at-banning-chinese-social-media-apps-including-tiktok-pompeo-311273">Also Read: US looking at banning Chinese social media apps, including TikTok</a>

"This move will safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace," announced the Ministry of Electronics and IT. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

In the wake of ban imposed on 59 Chinese apps, Instagram is planning to expand its new video-music remix feature Reels which offer TikTok-like functionalities to India.

In the wake of ban imposed on 59 Chinese apps, Instagram is planning to expand its new video-music remix feature Reels which offer TikTok-like functionalities to India. However, no date has been announced for the launch of the app in India as of now. "Reels is a fun, creative way for people to both express themselves and be entertained,” said a Facebook spokesperson. The app was first launched in Brazil and recently in France and Germany Also Read: India bans 59 Chinese apps including TikTok, Shareit citing national security Instagram Reels is a video-editing tool to allow users to create short,15-second video clips set to music or other audio and share those on the platform. Last month, the government of India took an unprecedented step and decided to ban at least 59 Chinese apps. Among the apps that have banned are Tik Tok, SHarit, Kwai, UC Browser, Baidu map, Shein, clash of Kings, DU battery saver, Helo, Likee, YouCam makeup, Mi Community, CM Browsers, Virus Cleaner, Apus Browser, among others. Also Read: US looking at banning Chinese social media apps, including TikTok "This move will safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace," announced the Ministry of Electronics and IT. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese apps banned: Instagram set to launch TikTok rival 'Reels' in India

US sanctions designed to restrict the ability of China’s Huawei to source advanced microchips for 5G equipment is likely to have a significant impact on the reliability of the supplier, Britain’s culture minister said on Monday.

Oliver Dowden told Sky News he would not comment on reports that officials are drawing up proposals to stop installing Huawei equipment but said the UK decision was not “not fixed in stone”.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday he would proceed carefully on making a decision on Huawei because the government did not want any critical infrastructure to be controlled by “potentially hostile state vendors”. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-must-proceed-carefully-on-decisions-related-to-huawei-says-uk-pm-boris-johnson-310244">Also Read:&nbsp;We must proceed carefully on decisions related to Huawei, says UK PM Boris Johnson</a>

“I don’t want to see our critical national infrastructure at risk of being in any way controlled by potentially hostile state vendors,” Johnson told the Evening Standard when asked about the Chinese telecommunications giant’s possible involvement in Britain’s 5G network. “So we have to think very carefully about how to proceed now.”

British lawmakers have been pushing Prime Minister Boris Johnson to reconsider a January decision to grant Huawei a limited role in Britain’s 5G networks. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/uk-to-end-use-of-huawei-technology-in-its-5g-network-report-310811">Also Read: UK to end use of Huawei technology in its 5G network: Report</a>

Meanwhile, the US telecommunications regulator Federal Communications Commission(FCC) has formally designated China's Huawei Technologies Co and ZTE Corp as posing threats to US national security.&nbsp;

The Mail on Sunday reported that the National Cyber Security Centre was instructed to carry out a review on the situation.

It also reported the organisation found that US sanctions had a major impact on the firm’s viability, the newspaper said.

(With inputs from Reuters)

US sanctions designed to restrict the ability of China’s Huawei to source advanced microchips for 5G equipment is likely to have a significant impact on the reliability of the supplier, Britain’s culture minister said on Monday.

US sanctions designed to restrict the ability of China’s Huawei to source advanced microchips for 5G equipment is likely to have a significant impact on the reliability of the supplier, Britain’s culture minister said on Monday. Oliver Dowden told Sky News he would not comment on reports that officials are drawing up proposals to stop installing Huawei equipment but said the UK decision was not “not fixed in stone”. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday he would proceed carefully on making a decision on Huawei because the government did not want any critical infrastructure to be controlled by “potentially hostile state vendors”. Also Read: We must proceed carefully on decisions related to Huawei, says UK PM Boris Johnson “I don’t want to see our critical national infrastructure at risk of being in any way controlled by potentially hostile state vendors,” Johnson told the Evening Standard when asked about the Chinese telecommunications giant’s possible involvement in Britain’s 5G network. “So we have to think very carefully about how to proceed now.” British lawmakers have been pushing Prime Minister Boris Johnson to reconsider a January decision to grant Huawei a limited role in Britain’s 5G networks. Also Read: UK to end use of Huawei technology in its 5G network: Report Meanwhile, the US telecommunications regulator Federal Communications Commission(FCC) has formally designated China's Huawei Technologies Co and ZTE Corp as posing threats to US national security. The Mail on Sunday reported that the National Cyber Security Centre was instructed to carry out a review on the situation. It also reported the organisation found that US sanctions had a major impact on the firm’s viability, the newspaper said. (With inputs from Reuters)

US sanctions will have a huge impact on the reliability of Huawei: UK minister

The UK is all to end the use of Huawei technology in its 5G network as soon as this year because of security concerns, according to reports. The prime minister, Boris Johnson, is set to make a major policy change after Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) is believed to have reassessed the risks posed by the Chinese technology company, British newspapers have said.

The UK is all to end the use of Huawei technology in its 5G network as soon as this year because of security concerns, according to reports. The prime minister, Boris Johnson, is set to make a major policy change after Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) is believed to have reassessed the risks posed by the Chinese technology company, British newspapers have said. A study set to be presented to Johnson this week will declare that US sanctions on Huawei will force the company to use technology that is “untrusted”, reports added. Also read: China is using Huawei to drive a wedge in the UK-US special relationship: Senator The prime minister’s decision to allow Huawei a limited role in Britain’s 5G network resulted in tension between London and Washington DC in recent months. A report by GCHQ’s National Cyber Security Centre has decided the US sanctions barring Huawei from using technology relying on American intellectual property has had a severe impact on the company, the Sunday Telegraph reported. The newspaper said officials are crafting proposals to prevent new Huawei equipment being installed in the 5G network in as little as six months. Also read: After UK, EU allows Huawei 5G with strict guidelines The involvement of the company in Britain’s 5G network also caused concern among a number of prominent figures on the Conservative backbenches. The Mail on Sunday reported that the National Cyber Security Centre was instructed to carry out a review on the situation. It also reported the organisation found that US sanctions had a major impact on the firm’s viability, the newspaper said.

UK to end use of Huawei technology in its 5G network: Report

Facebook said today that its messaging app WhatsApp has “paused” processing law enforcement requests for user data in Hong Kong.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schools-in-hong-kong-will-review-teaching-material-to-positively-teach-students-311073">Also Read:&nbsp;Schools in Hong Kong will review teaching material to 'positively teach' students</a>

"WhatsApp is pausing such reviews pending further assessment of the impact of the National Security Law, including formal human rights due diligence and consultations with human rights experts."

China had formally imposed the national security law on Hong Kong last week bypassing the city's legislature amid large scale protests and worldwide criticism.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-pro-democracy-protesters-work-their-way-around-new-law-310937/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Activist Joshua Wong, 23, who is one of the most strident critics of the Chinese regime said today: "We still have to let the world know that now is the time to stand with Hong Kong," adding, "with the belief of Hong Kong people to fight for freedom, we will never give up and surrender to Beijing."

Western countries have accused China of reneging on the "one country, two systems" formula promised to Britain during the Hong Kong handover in 1997.

On Monday, Hong Kong authorities charged the first person under the national security law and remanded him into custody. Tong Ying-kit, 23, was charged with "terrorism" and inciting "secession".

China has maintained that the new law will bring stability after a year of pro-democracy protests. The Chinese government also said it will take "strong countermeasures" if the US administration goes ahead with sanctions targeting banks over infringements on Hong Kong's autonomy.

The United Kindom has already&nbsp;announced plans to allow Hong Kong citizens UK citizenship amid growing tensions with China over the new security bill.

"We will live up to our promises to them," foreign secretary Dominic Raab told parliament allowing millions of Hong Kongers with British National Overseas status to relocate to the UK.

Facebook said today that its messaging app WhatsApp has “paused” processing law enforcement requests for user data in Hong Kong. Also Read: Schools in Hong Kong will review teaching material to 'positively teach' students "WhatsApp is pausing such reviews pending further assessment of the impact of the National Security Law, including formal human rights due diligence and consultations with human rights experts.

Facebook said today that its messaging app WhatsApp has “paused” processing law enforcement requests for user data in Hong Kong. Also Read: Schools in Hong Kong will review teaching material to 'positively teach' students "WhatsApp is pausing such reviews pending further assessment of the impact of the National Security Law, including formal human rights due diligence and consultations with human rights experts." China had formally imposed the national security law on Hong Kong last week bypassing the city's legislature amid large scale protests and worldwide criticism. Watch: Activist Joshua Wong, 23, who is one of the most strident critics of the Chinese regime said today: "We still have to let the world know that now is the time to stand with Hong Kong," adding, "with the belief of Hong Kong people to fight for freedom, we will never give up and surrender to Beijing." Western countries have accused China of reneging on the "one country, two systems" formula promised to Britain during the Hong Kong handover in 1997. On Monday, Hong Kong authorities charged the first person under the national security law and remanded him into custody. Tong Ying-kit, 23, was charged with "terrorism" and inciting "secession". China has maintained that the new law will bring stability after a year of pro-democracy protests. The Chinese government also said it will take "strong countermeasures" if the US administration goes ahead with sanctions targeting banks over infringements on Hong Kong's autonomy. The United Kindom has already announced plans to allow Hong Kong citizens UK citizenship amid growing tensions with China over the new security bill. "We will live up to our promises to them," foreign secretary Dominic Raab told parliament allowing millions of Hong Kongers with British National Overseas status to relocate to the UK.

WhatsApp to 'pause' law enforcement requests for user data in Hong Kong

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and Facebook have partnered to launch curriculum on digital safety and online well-being and Augmented Reality for students and educators, Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ announced on Sunday.

"I congratulate CBSE and Facebook on its partnership to introduce certified programmes in Augmented Reality for teachers and Digital Safety and online-wellbeing for students. I encourage the teachers and students to apply for the programmes commencing on July 6," Mr. Nishank wrote on Twitter.

According to CBSE officials, the comprehensive curriculum is aimed at ensuring online well-being of students and preparing them for the future of work.

"The modules are for secondary school students. The curriculum is now available on the CBSE website. This partnership is led by Facebook for Education, a global initiative by Facebook, to build diverse learning communities and bring the world closer together,” a senior board official said.

“As more and more young users get online, it becomes important to educate young adults, and students on making well informed choices online and also help them develop skills they need to safely navigate the internet,” the official explained.

The curriculum will cover aspects such as safety, privacy, mental health and Instagram’s guide for building healthy digital habits.

The module has been designed to guide students become responsible digital users, identify and report threats and harassment as well as report misinformation.

At least 10,000 students will be covered in the training which will be imparted by the Centre for Social Research (CSR), the officials said.

"Also, as part of the collaboration, Facebook will support CBSE in its first-ever initiative to introduce Artificial Reality (AR) as a curriculum. In the first phase, 10,000 teachers will be trained while 30,000 students will undergo the same in the second phase. The three-week training, to be conducted in batches, will cover fundamentals of AR and ways to utilise Facebook’s software, Spark AR Studio in order to create augmented reality experiences,” the official said.

“The objective is to give the learners an opportunity and platform to conceptualise, create and brand their own AR experiences. The hands-on learning experience of AR will help in preparing the students for a career in the digital economy. The teachers who successfully complete the training in the first phase will train 30,000 students in the second phase," the official added.

According to Ankhi Das, Director, Public Policy, India, South and Central Asia, “the current global pandemic is the most severe health and humanitarian crisis that the country has seen, with far-reaching impact on our lives. We recognise the disruption it has caused to traditional pedagogical methods, necessitating a shift to virtual modes of learning the most."

"Through our Facebook for Education programme in India, we wish to support the educational agencies in the country in enabling lessons on fostering safe online experiences, addressing online well-being as well as sharing easy toolkit for parents, educators and students to promote resilience and learning in the current environment," Ms. Das said.

“Besides, the AR curriculum offers an opportunity for young learners to explore emerging technology for the first time as part of their curriculum,” Ms. Das added.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and Facebook have partnered to launch curriculum on digital safety and online well-being and Augmented Reality for students and educators, Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ announced on Sunday.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and Facebook have partnered to launch curriculum on digital safety and online well-being and Augmented Reality for students and educators, Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ announced on Sunday. "I congratulate CBSE and Facebook on its partnership to introduce certified programmes in Augmented Reality for teachers and Digital Safety and online-wellbeing for students. I encourage the teachers and students to apply for the programmes commencing on July 6," Mr. Nishank wrote on Twitter. According to CBSE officials, the comprehensive curriculum is aimed at ensuring online well-being of students and preparing them for the future of work. "The modules are for secondary school students. The curriculum is now available on the CBSE website. This partnership is led by Facebook for Education, a global initiative by Facebook, to build diverse learning communities and bring the world closer together,” a senior board official said. “As more and more young users get online, it becomes important to educate young adults, and students on making well informed choices online and also help them develop skills they need to safely navigate the internet,” the official explained. The curriculum will cover aspects such as safety, privacy, mental health and Instagram’s guide for building healthy digital habits. The module has been designed to guide students become responsible digital users, identify and report threats and harassment as well as report misinformation. At least 10,000 students will be covered in the training which will be imparted by the Centre for Social Research (CSR), the officials said. "Also, as part of the collaboration, Facebook will support CBSE in its first-ever initiative to introduce Artificial Reality (AR) as a curriculum. In the first phase, 10,000 teachers will be trained while 30,000 students will undergo the same in the second phase. The three-week training, to be conducted in batches, will cover fundamentals of AR and ways to utilise Facebook’s software, Spark AR Studio in order to create augmented reality experiences,” the official said. “The objective is to give the learners an opportunity and platform to conceptualise, create and brand their own AR experiences. The hands-on learning experience of AR will help in preparing the students for a career in the digital economy. The teachers who successfully complete the training in the first phase will train 30,000 students in the second phase," the official added. According to Ankhi Das, Director, Public Policy, India, South and Central Asia, “the current global pandemic is the most severe health and humanitarian crisis that the country has seen, with far-reaching impact on our lives. We recognise the disruption it has caused to traditional pedagogical methods, necessitating a shift to virtual modes of learning the most." "Through our Facebook for Education programme in India, we wish to support the educational agencies in the country in enabling lessons on fostering safe online experiences, addressing online well-being as well as sharing easy toolkit for parents, educators and students to promote resilience and learning in the current environment," Ms. Das said. “Besides, the AR curriculum offers an opportunity for young learners to explore emerging technology for the first time as part of their curriculum,” Ms. Das added.

CBSE partners with Facebook for curriculum on digital safety

Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has agreed to a new meeting with activists on the social media giant's content policies while vowing to resist pressure from an advertiser boycott, the company said Thursday.

The news comes amid increased pressure on the leading social network to clamp down on incendiary content which promotes racism and violence, which has gained momentum with more tan 650 advertisers joining a boycott.

Zuckerberg told an employee meeting this week the boycott is not likely to have a major impact and that most of the advertisers "will be back on the platform soon enough," according to an account first reported by The Information and confirmed by AFP.

The Facebook CEO repeated that he would not change policy based on "a threat" to revenue but based on "the right things" for the Facebook community.

"We're not gonna change our policies or approach on anything because of a threat to a small percent of our revenue, or any percent of our revenue," he said.

"We're gonna do what we think are the right things that we think are gonna serve the community best over time."

A Facebook spokesperson, asked about the pressure, said in an email:&nbsp;"We take these matters very seriously and respect the feedback from our partners... But as we've said, we make policy changes based on principles, not revenue pressures."&nbsp;

The spokesperson said Zuckerberg agreed to join a meeting with activist leaders including from the NAACP, Anti-Defamation League and Color of Change to discuss Facebook's moderation practices.

"They asked about having Mark at the&nbsp;meeting, and we've since confirmed that Mark is able to join," the statement said.

The Washington Post reported the meeting would take place Monday.

The groups are seeking a top level executive to evaluate "products and policies for discrimination, bias, and hate," according to a statement from the Stop Hate for Profit campaign, as well as independent audits of "identity-based hate and misinformation."

Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has agreed to a new meeting with activists on the social media giant's content policies while vowing to resist pressure from an advertiser boycott, the company said Thursday.

Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has agreed to a new meeting with activists on the social media giant's content policies while vowing to resist pressure from an advertiser boycott, the company said Thursday. The news comes amid increased pressure on the leading social network to clamp down on incendiary content which promotes racism and violence, which has gained momentum with more tan 650 advertisers joining a boycott. Zuckerberg told an employee meeting this week the boycott is not likely to have a major impact and that most of the advertisers "will be back on the platform soon enough," according to an account first reported by The Information and confirmed by AFP. The Facebook CEO repeated that he would not change policy based on "a threat" to revenue but based on "the right things" for the Facebook community. "We're not gonna change our policies or approach on anything because of a threat to a small percent of our revenue, or any percent of our revenue," he said. "We're gonna do what we think are the right things that we think are gonna serve the community best over time." A Facebook spokesperson, asked about the pressure, said in an email: "We take these matters very seriously and respect the feedback from our partners... But as we've said, we make policy changes based on principles, not revenue pressures." The spokesperson said Zuckerberg agreed to join a meeting with activist leaders including from the NAACP, Anti-Defamation League and Color of Change to discuss Facebook's moderation practices. "They asked about having Mark at the meeting, and we've since confirmed that Mark is able to join," the statement said. The Washington Post reported the meeting would take place Monday. The groups are seeking a top level executive to evaluate "products and policies for discrimination, bias, and hate," according to a statement from the Stop Hate for Profit campaign, as well as independent audits of "identity-based hate and misinformation."

Facebook's Zuckerberg to meet activists, won't act on boycott

As the 'Black lives matter' movement took over the world, a lot of organisations are taking out words that can seem offensive and can hurt sentiments.

Following the same, Twitter has decided to remove words such as&nbsp;"master," "slave" and "blacklist" from its code after two engineers lobbied for the use of more inclusive programming language.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-twitter-encourage-people-to-wear-masks-310404">Also read:&nbsp;Facebook, Twitter encourage people to wear masks</a>

Michael Montano, the head of Twitter's engineering team, on Thursday tweeted saying 'words matter' and declared that the company will be removing all such words to show solidarity towards the African-American community, and stand against slavery.

"We are committed to adopting inclusive language in our code, configuration, documentation and beyond," he tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Words matter. We want <a href="https://twitter.com/TwitterEng?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TwitterEng</a> to reflect our values &amp; support our journey to become more inclusive. We are committed to adopting inclusive language in our code, configuration, documentation and beyond thanks to the principles &amp; framework <a href="https://twitter.com/negroprogrammer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@negroprogrammer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/kevino?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kevino</a> put together. <a href="https://t.co/oiJmmlRoKd">https://t.co/oiJmmlRoKd</a>
— Michael Montano (@michaelmontano) <a href="https://twitter.com/michaelmontano/status/1278747064701038592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The decision has been taken after the US observed several protests against the death of George Floyd.

At Twitter, "master" and "slave" will become "leader" and "follower" or "primary" and "replica," while "blacklist" will become "denylist."

The issue of the coded language used by engineers has been a topic of discussion since last few weeks. Considering these discussions, two of the engineers started the discussion on a greater platform and led the movement. The engineers Regynald Augustin&nbsp;tweeted that he was inspired to push for changes after an email went to the engineering team with the line "automatic slave rekick."

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I was inspired to start this work when I saw an email come through to our eng org with the line "automatic slave rekick.” Seeing it was infuriating. I’ve been used to seeing the word “slave” throughout my CS education but this was different.
— Regynald (@negroprogrammer) <a href="https://twitter.com/negroprogrammer/status/1278728953667022848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Seeing it was infuriating," he said. "I've been used to seeing the word 'slave' throughout my [computer science] education but this was different." The other engineer is named&nbsp;&nbsp;Kevin Oliver.

The list also includes "grandfathered," which will become "legacy status," and "dummy value," which will become "placeholder value" or "sample value."

American companies, JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co and&nbsp;and GitHub Inc have also decided to remove these words from the coded languages.

"This is not a trivial” investment by the bank, Griffel said. “This kind of language and terminology is so entrenched. It has to (change) and now is as good a time as any.”

(With inputs from Reuters)

As the 'Black lives matter' movement took over the world, a lot of organisations are taking out words that can seem offensive and can hurt sentiments. Following the same, Twitter has decided to remove words such as "master," "slave" and "blacklist" from its code after two engineers lobbied for the use of more inclusive programming language.

As the 'Black lives matter' movement took over the world, a lot of organisations are taking out words that can seem offensive and can hurt sentiments. Following the same, Twitter has decided to remove words such as "master," "slave" and "blacklist" from its code after two engineers lobbied for the use of more inclusive programming language. Also read: Facebook, Twitter encourage people to wear masks Michael Montano, the head of Twitter's engineering team, on Thursday tweeted saying 'words matter' and declared that the company will be removing all such words to show solidarity towards the African-American community, and stand against slavery. "We are committed to adopting inclusive language in our code, configuration, documentation and beyond," he tweeted. Words matter. We want @TwitterEng to reflect our values & support our journey to become more inclusive. We are committed to adopting inclusive language in our code, configuration, documentation and beyond thanks to the principles & framework @negroprogrammer @kevino put together. https://t.co/oiJmmlRoKd — Michael Montano (@michaelmontano) July 2, 2020 × The decision has been taken after the US observed several protests against the death of George Floyd. At Twitter, "master" and "slave" will become "leader" and "follower" or "primary" and "replica," while "blacklist" will become "denylist." The issue of the coded language used by engineers has been a topic of discussion since last few weeks. Considering these discussions, two of the engineers started the discussion on a greater platform and led the movement. The engineers Regynald Augustin tweeted that he was inspired to push for changes after an email went to the engineering team with the line "automatic slave rekick." I was inspired to start this work when I saw an email come through to our eng org with the line "automatic slave rekick.” Seeing it was infuriating. I’ve been used to seeing the word “slave” throughout my CS education but this was different. — Regynald (@negroprogrammer) July 2, 2020 × "Seeing it was infuriating," he said. "I've been used to seeing the word 'slave' throughout my [computer science] education but this was different." The other engineer is named Kevin Oliver. The list also includes "grandfathered," which will become "legacy status," and "dummy value," which will become "placeholder value" or "sample value." American companies, JPMorgan Chase & Co and and GitHub Inc have also decided to remove these words from the coded languages. "This is not a trivial” investment by the bank, Griffel said. “This kind of language and terminology is so entrenched. It has to (change) and now is as good a time as any.” (With inputs from Reuters)

Twitter to remove words like 'master', 'blacklist' and 'slave' from its code

Chingari app, a desi alternative to Chinese TikTok, on Friday said it has crossed 10 million downloads on Google Play Store.

The app, founded by Bengaluru-based programmers Biswatma Nayak and Siddharth Gautam last year, allows users to download and upload videos, chat with friends, interact with new people, share content and browse through the feed.&nbsp;

The app is available in multiple languages including English, Hindi, Bangla, Gujarati, Marathi, Kannada, Punjabi, Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bans-59-chinese-apps-including-tiktok-shareit-uc-browser-citing-national-security-309464">Also Read: India bans 59 Chinese apps including TikTok, Shareit citing national security</a>

In the midst of ongoing tension at Sino-Indian border after a standoff with Chinese forces along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh, the government of India on Monday took an unprecedented step and decided to ban at least 59 Chinese apps.

"This move will safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace," announced the Ministry of Electronics and IT. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-tiktok-is-a-threat-to-national-security-if-left-unchecked-300976">Also Read: Why TikTok is a threat to national security</a>

The apps which were banned included UC Browser, Tik Tok, SHAREit, Baidu map, Shein, clash of Kings, DU battery saver, Helo, Likee, YouCam makeup, Mi Community, CM Browsers, Virus Cleaner, Apus Browser among others. 
 
TikTok, a short video sharing app by Chinese firm ByteDance, had 200 million users in India.

On Tuesday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said that it was strongly concerned over India's move banning 59 Chinese apps. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Chingari app, a desi alternative to Chinese TikTok, on Friday said it has crossed 10 million downloads on Google Play Store. The app, founded by Bengaluru-based programmers Biswatma Nayak and Siddharth Gautam last year, allows users to download and upload videos, chat with friends, interact with new people, share content and browse through the feed.

Chingari app, a desi alternative to Chinese TikTok, on Friday said it has crossed 10 million downloads on Google Play Store. The app, founded by Bengaluru-based programmers Biswatma Nayak and Siddharth Gautam last year, allows users to download and upload videos, chat with friends, interact with new people, share content and browse through the feed. The app is available in multiple languages including English, Hindi, Bangla, Gujarati, Marathi, Kannada, Punjabi, Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu. Also Read: India bans 59 Chinese apps including TikTok, Shareit citing national security In the midst of ongoing tension at Sino-Indian border after a standoff with Chinese forces along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh, the government of India on Monday took an unprecedented step and decided to ban at least 59 Chinese apps. "This move will safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace," announced the Ministry of Electronics and IT. Also Read: Why TikTok is a threat to national security The apps which were banned included UC Browser, Tik Tok, SHAREit, Baidu map, Shein, clash of Kings, DU battery saver, Helo, Likee, YouCam makeup, Mi Community, CM Browsers, Virus Cleaner, Apus Browser among others. TikTok, a short video sharing app by Chinese firm ByteDance, had 200 million users in India. On Tuesday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said that it was strongly concerned over India's move banning 59 Chinese apps. (With inputs from agencies)

TikTok ban: Chingari app crosses 10 million downloads on Play Store

In the wake of the latest surge in the coronavirus cases in the United States, Facebook said it will remind users to wear masks to contain the spread of coronavirus.

"With the rise in COVID-19 cases in the US, we're putting an alert at the top of Facebook and Instagram to remind everyone to wear face coverings," the company said in a statement. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebooks-avatars-allows-users-in-india-to-create-own-digital-profile-309831">Also Read: Facebook's Avatars allows users in India to create own digital profile</a>

The social media platform will also include additional prevention tips and links to public health agencies in its COVID-19 Information Center.

Joining the chorus, Twitter too encouraged users to wear face masks with a sarcastic tweet. Twitter said the feature, which would allow users to edit their tweets, will be rolled out once everyone starts wearing face masks. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/read-before-retweeting-twitter-aims-to-limit-sharing-unread-articles-307770">Also Read: Read before retweeting: Twitter aims to limit sharing unread articles</a> 
 
"You can have an edit button when everyone wears a mask," said a tweet from the official Twitter account,

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You can have an edit button when everyone wears a mask
— Twitter (@Twitter) <a href="https://twitter.com/Twitter/status/1278763679421431809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Thursday reported 2,679,230 cases of new coronavirus, an increase of 54,357 cases from its previous count, and said that the number of deaths had risen by 725 to 128,024.

Meanwhile, India’s coronavirus infections surpassed 600,000 on Thursday, with 17,834 deaths. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

In the wake of the latest surge in the coronavirus cases in the United States, Facebook said it will remind users to wear masks to contain the spread of coronavirus.

In the wake of the latest surge in the coronavirus cases in the United States, Facebook said it will remind users to wear masks to contain the spread of coronavirus. "With the rise in COVID-19 cases in the US, we're putting an alert at the top of Facebook and Instagram to remind everyone to wear face coverings," the company said in a statement. Also Read: Facebook's Avatars allows users in India to create own digital profile The social media platform will also include additional prevention tips and links to public health agencies in its COVID-19 Information Center. Joining the chorus, Twitter too encouraged users to wear face masks with a sarcastic tweet. Twitter said the feature, which would allow users to edit their tweets, will be rolled out once everyone starts wearing face masks. Also Read: Read before retweeting: Twitter aims to limit sharing unread articles "You can have an edit button when everyone wears a mask," said a tweet from the official Twitter account, You can have an edit button when everyone wears a mask — Twitter (@Twitter) July 2, 2020 × The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Thursday reported 2,679,230 cases of new coronavirus, an increase of 54,357 cases from its previous count, and said that the number of deaths had risen by 725 to 128,024. Meanwhile, India’s coronavirus infections surpassed 600,000 on Thursday, with 17,834 deaths. (With inputs from agencies)

Facebook, Twitter encourage people to wear masks

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg is not ready to back down and has hit back on the brands boycotting Facebook by dropping their advertisements.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/top-american-brands-join-boycott-facebook-ads-campaign-309428">Top American brands join boycott Facebook ads campaign!</a>

"My guess is that all these advertisers will be back on the platform soon enough" the Facebook chief executive has said.

The social media platform has been accused by advertisers of being reluctant and slow to remove some hateful content.

Zuckerberg sees this boycott as a PR stunt by big brands rather than serious step and is not planning any major response.

"We’re not gonna change our policies or approach on anything because of a threat to a small percent of our revenue, or to any percent of our revenue,” he said in an interview.

He said the boycott is a "reputational and partner issue" and the advertisers should be back "soon enough".

The statement was confirmed by a Facebook spokesperson who said "We take these matters very seriously and respect the feedback from our partners. We’re making real progress keeping hate speech off our platform, and we don’t benefit from this kind of content. But as we’ve said, we make policy changes based on principles, not revenue pressures."&nbsp;

On Wednesday, 500 brands including Starbucks, Coca-Cola, Ford and several others announced the boycott.

Since the current boycott is nothing like what Facebook has ever faced before, Zuckerberg has agreed to meet the advertisers next week.

After weeks of protest against racial injustice, several big brands came together for the very first time against hate speech on Facebook by targeting it's $70 billion in annual ad revenue.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg is not ready to back down and has hit back on the brands boycotting Facebook by dropping their advertisements. Also see: Top American brands join boycott Facebook ads campaign!

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg is not ready to back down and has hit back on the brands boycotting Facebook by dropping their advertisements. Also see: Top American brands join boycott Facebook ads campaign! "My guess is that all these advertisers will be back on the platform soon enough" the Facebook chief executive has said. The social media platform has been accused by advertisers of being reluctant and slow to remove some hateful content. Zuckerberg sees this boycott as a PR stunt by big brands rather than serious step and is not planning any major response. "We’re not gonna change our policies or approach on anything because of a threat to a small percent of our revenue, or to any percent of our revenue,” he said in an interview. He said the boycott is a "reputational and partner issue" and the advertisers should be back "soon enough". The statement was confirmed by a Facebook spokesperson who said "We take these matters very seriously and respect the feedback from our partners. We’re making real progress keeping hate speech off our platform, and we don’t benefit from this kind of content. But as we’ve said, we make policy changes based on principles, not revenue pressures." On Wednesday, 500 brands including Starbucks, Coca-Cola, Ford and several others announced the boycott. Since the current boycott is nothing like what Facebook has ever faced before, Zuckerberg has agreed to meet the advertisers next week. After weeks of protest against racial injustice, several big brands came together for the very first time against hate speech on Facebook by targeting it's $70 billion in annual ad revenue.

Advertisers' boycott of Facebook to end 'soon enough' says CEO Mark Zuckerberg

Brazil’s central bank president said on Thursday that Facebook Inc messaging service WhatsApp would be allowed to launch its new payments service in the country once the social media platform proves that it can operate safely in terms of data protection in a competitive market.&nbsp;

“We are not saying that it is not competitive, we just want them to ask for authorization and to show us how it will work for us to make sure it is competitive,” Roberto Campos Neto said in a webcast organised by local newspaper Correio Braziliense. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tech-news-whatsapp-news-brazils-central-bank-suspends-whatsapps-new-payments-system-308112">Also Read: Brazil's central bank suspends WhatsApp's new payments system</a>

Last month, Brazil's central bank suspended a system allowing users of WhatsApp to send money via chats, citing potential damage in the areas of competition, efficiency and data privacy.&nbsp;

Campos Neto said that WhatsApp’s payment service requires a more thorough analysis.

“We have a pro-competition agenda. Once it is proven that it is a competitive arrangement and has data protection in the way we understand is needed, it will be approved,” Campos Neto added. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/whatsapp-announces-new-features-including-animated-stickers-310133">Also Read: WhatsApp announces new features including animated stickers</a>

WhatsApp has over 120 million users in Brazil, its second-largest market after India, where it has also struggled to roll out a payments system. 
 
In India, the feature did not take off due to regulatory issues. The feature was tested on just 1 million users despite WhatsApp having 400 million users in India.

Brazil’s central bank president said on Thursday that Facebook Inc messaging service WhatsApp would be allowed to launch its new payments service in the country once the social media platform proves that it can operate safely in terms of data protection in a competitive market.

Brazil’s central bank president said on Thursday that Facebook Inc messaging service WhatsApp would be allowed to launch its new payments service in the country once the social media platform proves that it can operate safely in terms of data protection in a competitive market. “We are not saying that it is not competitive, we just want them to ask for authorization and to show us how it will work for us to make sure it is competitive,” Roberto Campos Neto said in a webcast organised by local newspaper Correio Braziliense. Also Read: Brazil's central bank suspends WhatsApp's new payments system Last month, Brazil's central bank suspended a system allowing users of WhatsApp to send money via chats, citing potential damage in the areas of competition, efficiency and data privacy. Campos Neto said that WhatsApp’s payment service requires a more thorough analysis. “We have a pro-competition agenda. Once it is proven that it is a competitive arrangement and has data protection in the way we understand is needed, it will be approved,” Campos Neto added. Also Read: WhatsApp announces new features including animated stickers WhatsApp has over 120 million users in Brazil, its second-largest market after India, where it has also struggled to roll out a payments system. In India, the feature did not take off due to regulatory issues. The feature was tested on just 1 million users despite WhatsApp having 400 million users in India.

Brazil central bank chief says WhatsApp payments service requires further review

Tim Cook, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg and Sundar Pichai will testify before the House committee in Congress over anti-trust issues in July.

The CEOs of the four biggest technological companies&nbsp;will be questioned regarding their increasing market power, revenue and prominence amid escalating scrutiny from lawmakers according to&nbsp;Shadawn Reddick-Smith, a spokesman for the House Judiciary Committee.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-anti-trust-regulators-fine-apple-123-billion-286882">French anti-trust regulators fine Apple $1.23 billion</a>

It has not yet been decide whether the executives will appear in person or virtually due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Although most of them have already appeared before the Congress, but this is the first time that the CEOs will do so regarding antitrust concerns. The hearing will be the first time Jeff Bezos will apear before the Congress.

The questions about other issues the executives are also likely to face include&nbsp;Amazon's treatment of its warehouse workers or the spread of hate speech on Facebook and YouTube.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/growing-tide-of-coronavirus-cases-hit-amazon-warehouses-288731">Growing tide of coronavirus cases hit Amazon warehouses</a>

All four companies are being investigated by state or federal departments over an array of issues. While, the Justice Department Prosecutors are preparing a possible antitrust case against Google this year, after an inquiry homed in on its control of advertising technology and the search engine market.

Meanwhile, Amazon's business and Facebook's acquisition of smaller companies are being&nbsp;investigated&nbsp;by the Federal Trade Commission.

Apple, Amazon, Alphabet, Facebook and Microsoft are the five biggest technology&nbsp;companies according to&nbsp;market value.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Tim Cook, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg and Sundar Pichai will testify before the House committee in Congress over anti-trust issues in July. The CEOs of the four biggest technological companies will be questioned regarding their increasing market power, revenue and prominence amid escalating scrutiny from lawmakers according to Shadawn Reddick-Smith, a spokesman for the House Judiciary Committee.

Tim Cook, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg and Sundar Pichai will testify before the House committee in Congress over anti-trust issues in July. The CEOs of the four biggest technological companies will be questioned regarding their increasing market power, revenue and prominence amid escalating scrutiny from lawmakers according to Shadawn Reddick-Smith, a spokesman for the House Judiciary Committee. Also read: French anti-trust regulators fine Apple $1.23 billion It has not yet been decide whether the executives will appear in person or virtually due to the coronavirus pandemic. Although most of them have already appeared before the Congress, but this is the first time that the CEOs will do so regarding antitrust concerns. The hearing will be the first time Jeff Bezos will apear before the Congress. The questions about other issues the executives are also likely to face include Amazon's treatment of its warehouse workers or the spread of hate speech on Facebook and YouTube. Also read: Growing tide of coronavirus cases hit Amazon warehouses All four companies are being investigated by state or federal departments over an array of issues. While, the Justice Department Prosecutors are preparing a possible antitrust case against Google this year, after an inquiry homed in on its control of advertising technology and the search engine market. Meanwhile, Amazon's business and Facebook's acquisition of smaller companies are being investigated by the Federal Trade Commission. Apple, Amazon, Alphabet, Facebook and Microsoft are the five biggest technology companies according to market value.

CEOs of Apple, Amazon, Facebook and Google to testify in Congress over antitrust issues

There are some words that might be switching on your AI systems that you might not be aware of. A group of researchers&nbsp;have compiled a list of nearly 1,000 words that can "accidentally" activate Amazon's Alexa and Apple's Siri.

The researchers are from&nbsp;Ruhr-Universität Bochum and the Max Planck Institute for Cyber Security and Privacy in Germany.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/ceos-of-apple-amazon-facebook-and-google-to-testify-in-congress-over-antitrust-issues-310090">Also read|&nbsp;CEOs of Apple, Amazon, Facebook and Google to testify in Congress over antitrust issues</a>

The study was conducted on&nbsp;Amazon's Alexa, Apple's Siri, Google Assistant, Microsoft Cortana, as well as three virtual assistants exclusive to the Chinese market, from Xiaomi, Baidu, and Tencent, according to a report from the Ruhr-Universität Bochum news blog.

The researchers conducted the study by switching on the virtual assistants and leaving them alone in a room with a television playing episodes from several series and sitcoms such as&nbsp;Game of Thrones, Modern Family, and House of Cards, with English, German, and Chinese audio tracks for each.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tik-tok-removed-from-apples-app-store-and-google-play-after-govts-ban-309558">Also read|&nbsp;Tik Tok removed from Apple's App store and Google Play after govt's ban</a>

On playing these episodes, some words activated the system, which the researchers observed by the&nbsp;switching on of&nbsp;an LED light display. The team cross referenced the dialogue being spoken every time they observed the LED display turning on.

Once the assistants get&nbsp;activated by these words, the devices&nbsp;use local speech analysis software to determine if the sound was used with the purpose of activation or not. If the device concludes that the sound was a trigger, it sends&nbsp;an audio recording of several seconds to cloud servers for additional analysis.

Privacy concerns

While the researchers said that the developers might have used an array of words for activation to make things easier for the users, it does raise serious privacy concerns about this.

"The devices are intentionally programmed in a somewhat forgiving manner, because they are supposed to be able to understand their humans. Therefore, they are more likely to start up once too often rather than not at all," researcher Dorothea Kolossa said.

"From a privacy point of view, this is of course alarming, because sometimes very private conversations can end up with strangers.&nbsp;From an engineering point of view, however, this approach is quite understandable, because the systems can only be improved using such data. The manufacturers have to strike a balance between data protection and technical optimization," said&nbsp;Thorsten Holz, Professor at&nbsp;Ruhr-Universität Bochum.

There are some words that might be switching on your AI systems that you might not be aware of. A group of researchers have compiled a list of nearly 1,000 words that can "accidentally" activate Amazon's Alexa and Apple's Siri.

There are some words that might be switching on your AI systems that you might not be aware of. A group of researchers have compiled a list of nearly 1,000 words that can "accidentally" activate Amazon's Alexa and Apple's Siri. The researchers are from Ruhr-Universität Bochum and the Max Planck Institute for Cyber Security and Privacy in Germany. Also read| CEOs of Apple, Amazon, Facebook and Google to testify in Congress over antitrust issues The study was conducted on Amazon's Alexa, Apple's Siri, Google Assistant, Microsoft Cortana, as well as three virtual assistants exclusive to the Chinese market, from Xiaomi, Baidu, and Tencent, according to a report from the Ruhr-Universität Bochum news blog. The researchers conducted the study by switching on the virtual assistants and leaving them alone in a room with a television playing episodes from several series and sitcoms such as Game of Thrones, Modern Family, and House of Cards, with English, German, and Chinese audio tracks for each. Also read| Tik Tok removed from Apple's App store and Google Play after govt's ban On playing these episodes, some words activated the system, which the researchers observed by the switching on of an LED light display. The team cross referenced the dialogue being spoken every time they observed the LED display turning on. Once the assistants get activated by these words, the devices use local speech analysis software to determine if the sound was used with the purpose of activation or not. If the device concludes that the sound was a trigger, it sends an audio recording of several seconds to cloud servers for additional analysis. Privacy concerns While the researchers said that the developers might have used an array of words for activation to make things easier for the users, it does raise serious privacy concerns about this. "The devices are intentionally programmed in a somewhat forgiving manner, because they are supposed to be able to understand their humans. Therefore, they are more likely to start up once too often rather than not at all," researcher Dorothea Kolossa said. "From a privacy point of view, this is of course alarming, because sometimes very private conversations can end up with strangers. From an engineering point of view, however, this approach is quite understandable, because the systems can only be improved using such data. The manufacturers have to strike a balance between data protection and technical optimization," said Thorsten Holz, Professor at Ruhr-Universität Bochum.

Researchers find 1,000 words that 'accidentally' activate Alexa, Siri and Google

British Police, on Thursday, claimed to have carried out their biggest operation ever in which they caught "iconic" figures.

The National Crime Agency (NCA) has claimed to smash thousands of conspiracies, including murder plots, as the agency was able to crack the encryption system of EnroChat, the communication system which was being used by several criminals.

"Together we’ve protected the public by arresting middle-tier criminals and the kingpins, the so-called iconic untouchables who have evaded law enforcement for years, and now we have the evidence to prosecute them," said NCA Director of Investigations Nikki Holland.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-government-boosts-cyber-security-after-state-backed-attacks-309605">Also read|&nbsp;Australian government boosts cyber security after state-backed attacks</a>

NCA claimed to have been working on this project since 2016 with international partners, after which it has managed to arrest nearly 750 criminals.

The agency said it also meant a specialist team had been able to stop rival gangs carrying out kidnappings and executions, "successfully mitigating over 200 threats to life".

Two months ago, French and Dutch investigators were able to infiltrate the platform, which had 60,000 users worldwide and around 10,000 in the United Kingdom. This allowed the agencies to monitor the messages and keep a eye on the movements of the criminals.

Reports also suggested that EnroChat had realized that the platform had been infiltrated, and had then asked their users to throw away their devices. All this had happened after June 13.

However, British police have made 746 arrests, claimed 54 million pounds ($67 million) in criminal cash, seized 77 firearms, including an assault rifle and sub-machine guns, and more than two tonnes of drugs, the NCA said.

The operation has been helpful for other European agencies too, who have been able to get ahead of criminal activities using this&nbsp;information.

EnroChat has now been shut down.

(With inputs from Reuters)

British Police, on Thursday, claimed to have carried out their biggest operation ever in which they caught "iconic" figures. The National Crime Agency (NCA) has claimed to smash thousands of conspiracies, including murder plots, as the agency was able to crack the encryption system of EnroChat, the communication system which was being used by several criminals.

British Police, on Thursday, claimed to have carried out their biggest operation ever in which they caught "iconic" figures. The National Crime Agency (NCA) has claimed to smash thousands of conspiracies, including murder plots, as the agency was able to crack the encryption system of EnroChat, the communication system which was being used by several criminals. "Together we’ve protected the public by arresting middle-tier criminals and the kingpins, the so-called iconic untouchables who have evaded law enforcement for years, and now we have the evidence to prosecute them," said NCA Director of Investigations Nikki Holland. Also read| Australian government boosts cyber security after state-backed attacks NCA claimed to have been working on this project since 2016 with international partners, after which it has managed to arrest nearly 750 criminals. The agency said it also meant a specialist team had been able to stop rival gangs carrying out kidnappings and executions, "successfully mitigating over 200 threats to life". Two months ago, French and Dutch investigators were able to infiltrate the platform, which had 60,000 users worldwide and around 10,000 in the United Kingdom. This allowed the agencies to monitor the messages and keep a eye on the movements of the criminals. Reports also suggested that EnroChat had realized that the platform had been infiltrated, and had then asked their users to throw away their devices. All this had happened after June 13. However, British police have made 746 arrests, claimed 54 million pounds ($67 million) in criminal cash, seized 77 firearms, including an assault rifle and sub-machine guns, and more than two tonnes of drugs, the NCA said. The operation has been helpful for other European agencies too, who have been able to get ahead of criminal activities using this information. EnroChat has now been shut down. (With inputs from Reuters)

UK police catches nearly 750 criminals in biggest operation against EnroChat: NCA

Google on Thursday said it has temporarily blocked access to those apps that were still available on the Play Store in India even after the government banned on 59 apps this week.

"While we continue to review the interim orders from the Government of India, we have notified the affected developers and have temporarily blocked access to the apps that remained available on the Play Store in India," a Google spokesperson said.

On Tuesday, the Indian government directed all internet service providers to block the banned apps under the emergency clause of the IT Act. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/havent-adopted-discriminatory-measures-against-indian-products-says-china-on-apps-banned-by-india-310146">Also Read:&nbsp;Haven't adopted discriminatory measures against Indian products, says China</a>

The Indian government had on Monday banned 59 Chinese apps amid the India-China standoff at Galwan Valley.

Other than TikTok, the apps which were banned included UC Browser, SHAREit, Baidu map, Shein, clash of Kings, DU battery saver, Helo, Likee, YouCam makeup, Mi Community, CM Browsers, Virus Cleaner, Apus Browser and many more. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-quits-chinese-social-network-weibo-all-posts-profile-picture-removed-309928">Also Read: PM Modi quits Chinese social network Weibo</a>

Meanwhile, China's commerce ministry said that China has not "adopted any restrictive and discriminatory measures against Indian products and services". The Commerce ministry said it hoped India corrects its "discriminatory actions against Chinese companies immediately."&nbsp;

In a similar move, China's foreign ministry had earlier said it was "strongly concerned" over India's ban on Chinese apps. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Google on Thursday said it has temporarily blocked access to those apps that were still available on the Play Store in India even after the government banned on 59 apps this week.

Google on Thursday said it has temporarily blocked access to those apps that were still available on the Play Store in India even after the government banned on 59 apps this week. "While we continue to review the interim orders from the Government of India, we have notified the affected developers and have temporarily blocked access to the apps that remained available on the Play Store in India," a Google spokesperson said. On Tuesday, the Indian government directed all internet service providers to block the banned apps under the emergency clause of the IT Act. Also Read: Haven't adopted discriminatory measures against Indian products, says China The Indian government had on Monday banned 59 Chinese apps amid the India-China standoff at Galwan Valley. Other than TikTok, the apps which were banned included UC Browser, SHAREit, Baidu map, Shein, clash of Kings, DU battery saver, Helo, Likee, YouCam makeup, Mi Community, CM Browsers, Virus Cleaner, Apus Browser and many more. Also Read: PM Modi quits Chinese social network Weibo Meanwhile, China's commerce ministry said that China has not "adopted any restrictive and discriminatory measures against Indian products and services". The Commerce ministry said it hoped India corrects its "discriminatory actions against Chinese companies immediately." In a similar move, China's foreign ministry had earlier said it was "strongly concerned" over India's ban on Chinese apps. (With inputs from agencies)

Google temporarily blocks access to banned apps in India

WhatsApp on Wednesday announced many new features including adding contact through QR codes, animated stickers and dark mode for its web and desktop platforms.

The new features will start rolling over the next few weeks.&nbsp;

Animated stickers, which are one of the fastest-growing ways people communicate on WhatsApp, are even more fun and expressive.&nbsp;

Now, users will be able to scan QR codes to add others to their contacts. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tech-news-whatsapp-news-brazils-central-bank-suspends-whatsapps-new-payments-system-308112">Also Read: Brazil's central bank suspends WhatsApp's new payments system</a> 
 
"While our focus remains on providing a simple, reliable and private way for people to chat with friends and family - we also continue to push forward our product design to make sure WhatsApp remains the most useful way for anyone, anywhere to connect," the company said in a blog post.

WhatsApp said users can easily start a group video call with just one tap on a video icon in group chats of 8 or less.

"With now up to 8 people on a video call, the new feature will make it easier to focus on whoever you want by letting you press and hold to maximize a participant's video to full screen," WhatsApp said.

Furthermore, the company also extended its Dark Mode feature for web and desktop.

(With inputs from ANI)

WhatsApp on Wednesday announced many new features including adding contact through QR codes, animated stickers and dark mode for its web and desktop platforms. The new features will start rolling over the next few weeks.

WhatsApp on Wednesday announced many new features including adding contact through QR codes, animated stickers and dark mode for its web and desktop platforms. The new features will start rolling over the next few weeks. Animated stickers, which are one of the fastest-growing ways people communicate on WhatsApp, are even more fun and expressive. Now, users will be able to scan QR codes to add others to their contacts. Also Read: Brazil's central bank suspends WhatsApp's new payments system "While our focus remains on providing a simple, reliable and private way for people to chat with friends and family - we also continue to push forward our product design to make sure WhatsApp remains the most useful way for anyone, anywhere to connect," the company said in a blog post. WhatsApp said users can easily start a group video call with just one tap on a video icon in group chats of 8 or less. "With now up to 8 people on a video call, the new feature will make it easier to focus on whoever you want by letting you press and hold to maximize a participant's video to full screen," WhatsApp said. Furthermore, the company also extended its Dark Mode feature for web and desktop. (With inputs from ANI)

WhatsApp announces new features including animated stickers

Social networking giant Facebook has launched its latest feature "Avatars"&nbsp;in India which allows users to make graphic images of themselves, the new tool has characteristics of Bitmoji stickers used in Snapchat.

Facebook said Avatars supports faces, hairstyles and outfits that are customized for users in India. The launch comes just a day after&nbsp;the Indian government banned 59 Chinese apps over national security concerns with Tik Tok facing the government's ire even as its followers swelled in India.

Alibaba, Bytedance, Baidu and Tencent who had launched apps in India have come under the government's spotlight.

The new Facebook feature allows uses to create a digital persona that’s uniquely representative enabling them&nbsp;to share a range of emotions and expressions. Facebook is looking to personalise the user experience as it looks to drive its user base in India and&nbsp;seeks to move away from simple GIFs and stickers.

Avatars posts can also be shared on WhatsApp chats including as Facebook's profile picture with users now allowed to set specific hair and facial features according to their preference. The users can in fact also create avatars from another user's cartoon-like representation.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
These Facebook avatars are so cute! 
Look at mine. 🤭 <a href="https://t.co/M8VP83MLcW">pic.twitter.com/M8VP83MLcW</a>
— Parul ⁷⟭⟬ (@parul__1997) <a href="https://twitter.com/parul__1997/status/1278184524510199808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The users in India were quick to lap up the new feature as they posted their ‘Avatars’ to show off to their friends as Facebook hopes it becomes another addictive feature for its fanbase in India.

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Facebook trend it is 😂 
I am this type of Avatar .. what is yours ?🤔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Trending?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Trending</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Facebook?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Facebook</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/facebookapp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@facebookapp</a> <a href="https://t.co/moQK73yfNF">pic.twitter.com/moQK73yfNF</a>
— Soumili Deb (@DebSoumili) <a href="https://twitter.com/DebSoumili/status/1278207112229695488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The feature allows a user to change skin tone, put on new makeup and clothes with everything available on Android, iOS devices where users can use their Facebook account.

&nbsp;

Social networking giant Facebook has launched its latest feature "Avatars" in India which allows users to make graphic images of themselves, the new tool has characteristics of Bitmoji stickers used in Snapchat.

Social networking giant Facebook has launched its latest feature "Avatars" in India which allows users to make graphic images of themselves, the new tool has characteristics of Bitmoji stickers used in Snapchat. Facebook said Avatars supports faces, hairstyles and outfits that are customized for users in India. The launch comes just a day after the Indian government banned 59 Chinese apps over national security concerns with Tik Tok facing the government's ire even as its followers swelled in India. Alibaba, Bytedance, Baidu and Tencent who had launched apps in India have come under the government's spotlight. The new Facebook feature allows uses to create a digital persona that’s uniquely representative enabling them to share a range of emotions and expressions. Facebook is looking to personalise the user experience as it looks to drive its user base in India and seeks to move away from simple GIFs and stickers. Avatars posts can also be shared on WhatsApp chats including as Facebook's profile picture with users now allowed to set specific hair and facial features according to their preference. The users can in fact also create avatars from another user's cartoon-like representation. These Facebook avatars are so cute! Look at mine. 🤭 pic.twitter.com/M8VP83MLcW — Parul ⁷⟭⟬ (@parul__1997) July 1, 2020 × The users in India were quick to lap up the new feature as they posted their ‘Avatars’ to show off to their friends as Facebook hopes it becomes another addictive feature for its fanbase in India. Facebook trend it is 😂 I am this type of Avatar .. what is yours ?🤔#Trending @Facebook @facebookapp pic.twitter.com/moQK73yfNF — Soumili Deb (@DebSoumili) July 1, 2020 × The feature allows a user to change skin tone, put on new makeup and clothes with everything available on Android, iOS devices where users can use their Facebook account.

Facebook's Avatars allows users in India to create own digital profile

The US telecommunications regulator&nbsp;Federal Communications Commission(FCC) on Tuesday formally designated China's&nbsp;Huawei Technologies Co and ZTE Corp as posing threats to US&nbsp;national security.

The&nbsp;declaration bars US&nbsp;tech firms from tapping an $8.3 billion Universal Service Fund to purchase equipment from the companies, effective immediately.

This fund was established in 1997 and is a programme that provides subsidies to companies while purchasing equipment and services for the maximisation of access to the telecom industry in a country.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-asked-for-personal-favours-from-trump-for-huawei-and-zte-john-bolton-309228">Xi Jinping asked for personal 'favours' from Trump for Huawei and ZTE: John Bolton</a>

The US&nbsp;telecommunications&nbsp;regulator had voted in November to issue the declaration and had proposed requiring rural carriers to remove and replace equipment from the two Chinese companies from existing US&nbsp;networks.

''Both companies have close ties to the Chinese Communist Party and China’s military apparatus, and both companies are broadly subject to Chinese law obligating them to cooperate with the country’s intelligence services,''&nbsp;FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said in a statement Tuesday.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/pentagon-names-huawei-and-hikvision-among-20-chinese-military-backed-firms-308500">Pentagon names Huawei and Hikvision among 20 Chinese military-backed firms</a>

''We cannot and will not allow the Chinese Communist Party to exploit network vulnerabilities and compromise our critical communications infrastructure," he added.

Huawei and ZTE did not immediately respond to requests for comment but have previously sharply criticized the FCC's actions.

FCC Commissioner Geoffrey Starks said on Tuesday that "untrustworthy equipment" remains in place in US&nbsp;networks and said the US&nbsp;Congress must allocate funding for replacements.

In May 2019, US President Trump had signed an executive order declaring a national emergency and barring US&nbsp;companies from&nbsp;using telecommunications equipment made by companies posing a national security risk. The Trump administration had also added Huawei to its trade blacklist last year.

The FCC has taken an increasingly hard line against Chinese firms.&nbsp;In April, the FCC said it may shut down US&nbsp;operations of three state-controlled Chinese&nbsp;telecommunications&nbsp;companies

The FCC required China Telecom Americas, China Unicom Americas, Pacific Networks Corp and its wholly-owned subsidiary ComNet (USA) LLC to explain why it should not start the process of revoking authorizations enabling their U.S. operations.

The FCC granted its approvals to the firms more than a decade ago.

In May 2019, the FCC voted to deny another state-owned Chinese&nbsp;telecommunications&nbsp;company, China Mobile Ltd, the right to provide US&nbsp;services, citing risks that the Chinese government could&nbsp;use the company to conduct espionage against the US&nbsp;government.

The US telecommunications regulator Federal Communications Commission(FCC) on Tuesday formally designated China's Huawei Technologies Co and ZTE Corp as posing threats to US national security.

The US telecommunications regulator Federal Communications Commission(FCC) on Tuesday formally designated China's Huawei Technologies Co and ZTE Corp as posing threats to US national security. The declaration bars US tech firms from tapping an $8.3 billion Universal Service Fund to purchase equipment from the companies, effective immediately. This fund was established in 1997 and is a programme that provides subsidies to companies while purchasing equipment and services for the maximisation of access to the telecom industry in a country. Also read| Xi Jinping asked for personal 'favours' from Trump for Huawei and ZTE: John Bolton The US telecommunications regulator had voted in November to issue the declaration and had proposed requiring rural carriers to remove and replace equipment from the two Chinese companies from existing US networks. ''Both companies have close ties to the Chinese Communist Party and China’s military apparatus, and both companies are broadly subject to Chinese law obligating them to cooperate with the country’s intelligence services,'' FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said in a statement Tuesday. Also read| Pentagon names Huawei and Hikvision among 20 Chinese military-backed firms ''We cannot and will not allow the Chinese Communist Party to exploit network vulnerabilities and compromise our critical communications infrastructure," he added. Huawei and ZTE did not immediately respond to requests for comment but have previously sharply criticized the FCC's actions. FCC Commissioner Geoffrey Starks said on Tuesday that "untrustworthy equipment" remains in place in US networks and said the US Congress must allocate funding for replacements. In May 2019, US President Trump had signed an executive order declaring a national emergency and barring US companies from using telecommunications equipment made by companies posing a national security risk. The Trump administration had also added Huawei to its trade blacklist last year. The FCC has taken an increasingly hard line against Chinese firms. In April, the FCC said it may shut down US operations of three state-controlled Chinese telecommunications companies The FCC required China Telecom Americas, China Unicom Americas, Pacific Networks Corp and its wholly-owned subsidiary ComNet (USA) LLC to explain why it should not start the process of revoking authorizations enabling their U.S. operations. The FCC granted its approvals to the firms more than a decade ago. In May 2019, the FCC voted to deny another state-owned Chinese telecommunications company, China Mobile Ltd, the right to provide US services, citing risks that the Chinese government could use the company to conduct espionage against the US government.

US telecom regulator designates China's Huawei, ZTE as 'national security threats'

Facebook has removed hundreds of extremist accounts running a "violent US-based anti-government network" loosely connected to to the&nbsp;Boogaloo movement.

The tech giant it said that it has removed more than 300 accounts from Facebook and Instagram which were tied to 106 groups associated with the&nbsp;Boogaloo movement.

"Members of this network seek to recruit others within the broader boogaloo movement, sharing the same content online and adopting the same offline appearance as others in the movement to do so," the company said in an issued statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-removes-hundreds-more-accounts-as-right-wing-violence-spreads-306406">Facebook removes hundreds more accounts as right-wing violence spreads</a>

The company called the move&nbsp;"the latest step in our commitment to ban people who proclaim a violent mission from using our platform".

Before, an additional 400 groups and 100 pages were taken down for posting content broadly supporting the&nbsp;movement.

The term 'Boogaloo' is a slang word supporters use to refer to&nbsp;the second civil war.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/top-american-brands-join-boycott-facebook-ads-campaign-309428">Top American brands join boycott Facebook ads campaign!</a>

Facebook has been facing boycott from several big companies including Starbucks, Coca-Cola, Adidas and&nbsp;Ford who have taken down their advertisements over hate speech on the platform.

According to the criminal complaint against the&nbsp;alleged killer of a federal security officer, who was shot in Oakland, California on May 30,&nbsp;had posted about&nbsp;the Boogaloo on Facebook and connected with his accomplice on the same social media platform.

Facebook has removed hundreds of extremist accounts running a "violent US-based anti-government network" loosely connected to to the Boogaloo movement. The tech giant it said that it has removed more than 300 accounts from Facebook and Instagram which were tied to 106 groups associated with the Boogaloo movement.

Facebook has removed hundreds of extremist accounts running a "violent US-based anti-government network" loosely connected to to the Boogaloo movement. The tech giant it said that it has removed more than 300 accounts from Facebook and Instagram which were tied to 106 groups associated with the Boogaloo movement. "Members of this network seek to recruit others within the broader boogaloo movement, sharing the same content online and adopting the same offline appearance as others in the movement to do so," the company said in an issued statement. Also read: Facebook removes hundreds more accounts as right-wing violence spreads The company called the move "the latest step in our commitment to ban people who proclaim a violent mission from using our platform". Before, an additional 400 groups and 100 pages were taken down for posting content broadly supporting the movement. The term 'Boogaloo' is a slang word supporters use to refer to the second civil war. Also see: Top American brands join boycott Facebook ads campaign! Facebook has been facing boycott from several big companies including Starbucks, Coca-Cola, Adidas and Ford who have taken down their advertisements over hate speech on the platform. According to the criminal complaint against the alleged killer of a federal security officer, who was shot in Oakland, California on May 30, had posted about the Boogaloo on Facebook and connected with his accomplice on the same social media platform.

Facebook bans hundreds of extremist Boogaloo group accounts for 'promoting violence'

A day after banning 59 Chinese apps, the Indian government on Tuesday&nbsp;directed all internet service providers to block the banned apps under the emergency clause of the IT Act.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued the order in two sets -- the first set contains a list of 35 apps and the other 24 apps taking the total to 59.

"The Ministry of Electronics and &amp; Information Technology has issued directions for blocking 24 apps under the emergency clause 69A of the IT Act 2000, in addition to 35 apps for whose blocking instructions have been issued earlier today itself," a DoT order to internet companies said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bans-chinese-apps-what-does-the-decision-mean-for-beijing-309734">Also Read: India bans Chinese apps: What does the decision mean for Beijing?</a>

Government has also issued IP addresses which will make Internet service providers to easily block access to the banned Chinese apps.

The Indian government had on Monday banned 59 Chinese apps amid the India-China standoff at Galwan Valley.

Other than TikTok, the apps which were banned included UC Browser, SHAREit, Baidu map, Shein, clash of Kings, DU battery saver, Helo, Likee, YouCam makeup, Mi Community, CM Browsers, Virus Cleaner, Apus Browser and many more. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bans-59-chinese-apps-including-tiktok-shareit-uc-browser-citing-national-security-309464">Also Read: India bans 59 Chinese apps citing national security</a>

Meanwhile, China's foreign ministry said it was "strongly concerned" over India's ban on Chinese apps.

"China is strongly concerned by the notice served by the Indian government," it said, adding, "the Chinese government always asks Chinese businessmen to abide by international law and regulations in their business cooperation." 
 
(With inputs from PTI)

A day after banning 59 Chinese apps, the Indian government on Tuesday directed all internet service providers to block the banned apps under the emergency clause of the IT Act.

A day after banning 59 Chinese apps, the Indian government on Tuesday directed all internet service providers to block the banned apps under the emergency clause of the IT Act. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued the order in two sets -- the first set contains a list of 35 apps and the other 24 apps taking the total to 59. "The Ministry of Electronics and & Information Technology has issued directions for blocking 24 apps under the emergency clause 69A of the IT Act 2000, in addition to 35 apps for whose blocking instructions have been issued earlier today itself," a DoT order to internet companies said. Also Read: India bans Chinese apps: What does the decision mean for Beijing? Government has also issued IP addresses which will make Internet service providers to easily block access to the banned Chinese apps. The Indian government had on Monday banned 59 Chinese apps amid the India-China standoff at Galwan Valley. Other than TikTok, the apps which were banned included UC Browser, SHAREit, Baidu map, Shein, clash of Kings, DU battery saver, Helo, Likee, YouCam makeup, Mi Community, CM Browsers, Virus Cleaner, Apus Browser and many more. Also Read: India bans 59 Chinese apps citing national security Meanwhile, China's foreign ministry said it was "strongly concerned" over India's ban on Chinese apps. "China is strongly concerned by the notice served by the Indian government," it said, adding, "the Chinese government always asks Chinese businessmen to abide by international law and regulations in their business cooperation." (With inputs from PTI)

Government asks internet companies to block the banned Chinese apps

A day after the government banned several Chinese apps, popular short-form video app Mitron reported that its daily traffic jumped up by more than 11 times.

Just 5 days after crossing the 10 million (1 crore) downloads milestone, Mitron has now announced that the app has been downloaded by 17 million (1.7 crore) users in India. Mitron app has been one of the most downloaded apps in India during the last two months.

It is incredibly exciting to see the rapid adoption of Mitron by Indian users. 11-fold jump in traffic, immediately after the ban of Chinese apps, was beyond our expectations, said Shivank Agarwal, Founder and CEO, Mitron.

Anish Khandelwal, Founder &amp; CTO said, " We have built a solid backend infrastructure and our platform is now completely scalable and autonomous and that is helping us to cater to the sharp rise in traffic on Mitron App."

Mitron has been rapidly enhancing the product with several improvements for the users including an updated video upload process that is much easier, enhanced audio library with a wide choice of Indian content and a feature that enables users to flag any inappropriate content easily.

Users uploaded millions of videos in 10 different languages and the number of videos viewed on the platform increased sharply to cross 30 million video views per hour.

Shivank added, "We are a young company and we are hiring some of the best product &amp; engineering talent to scale up Mitron rapidly. We are confident that we can build Mitron into one of the best apps in the short-form video space. Our focus is on building features and content that uniquely resonates with Indian users, while being sensitive to community standards and local laws in India and we believe that will help us build Mitron into a very large business."

Mitron app is a short-form video app that allows users to create, upload and view entertaining short videos.

A day after the government banned several Chinese apps, popular short-form video app Mitron reported that its daily traffic jumped up by more than 11 times. Just 5 days after crossing the 10 million (1 crore) downloads milestone, Mitron has now announced that the app has been downloaded by 17 million (1.

A day after the government banned several Chinese apps, popular short-form video app Mitron reported that its daily traffic jumped up by more than 11 times. Just 5 days after crossing the 10 million (1 crore) downloads milestone, Mitron has now announced that the app has been downloaded by 17 million (1.7 crore) users in India. Mitron app has been one of the most downloaded apps in India during the last two months. It is incredibly exciting to see the rapid adoption of Mitron by Indian users. 11-fold jump in traffic, immediately after the ban of Chinese apps, was beyond our expectations, said Shivank Agarwal, Founder and CEO, Mitron. Anish Khandelwal, Founder & CTO said, " We have built a solid backend infrastructure and our platform is now completely scalable and autonomous and that is helping us to cater to the sharp rise in traffic on Mitron App." Mitron has been rapidly enhancing the product with several improvements for the users including an updated video upload process that is much easier, enhanced audio library with a wide choice of Indian content and a feature that enables users to flag any inappropriate content easily. Users uploaded millions of videos in 10 different languages and the number of videos viewed on the platform increased sharply to cross 30 million video views per hour. Shivank added, "We are a young company and we are hiring some of the best product & engineering talent to scale up Mitron rapidly. We are confident that we can build Mitron into one of the best apps in the short-form video space. Our focus is on building features and content that uniquely resonates with Indian users, while being sensitive to community standards and local laws in India and we believe that will help us build Mitron into a very large business." Mitron app is a short-form video app that allows users to create, upload and view entertaining short videos.

Video app Mitron traffic jumps up 11-fold as government bans TikTok

After the Indian government decided to ban 59 Chinese apps, TikTok CEO Kevin Mayer addressed the Indian employees, saying that the company is working with stakeholders to address their concerns.&nbsp;

"TikTok continues to comply with all data privacy and security requirements under Indian law and places the highest importance on user privacy and integrity," said Kevin Mayer.

"Our employees are our biggest strength, and their well-being is our topmost priority. We have also assured more than 2,000 strong workforce that we will do everything in our power to restore the positive experiences and opportunities that they can be proud of," the TikTok CEO said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bans-chinese-apps-what-does-the-decision-mean-for-beijing-309734">Also Read:&nbsp;India bans Chinese apps: What does the decision mean for Beijing?</a>

He further said that the company look forward to play an active role in the mainframe of Digital India.

Kevin Mayer took over as TikTok CEO in June, 2019 and the ban on the app by the Indian government is the first big challenge he faces.

Earlier on&nbsp;Tuesday, TikTok India responding&nbsp;to the ban said, "The government of India has issued an interim order for the blocking of 59 apps, including TikTok and we are in the process of complying with it. We have been invited to meet with concerned government stakeholders for an opportunity to respond and submit clarifications." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/strongly-concerned-over-indias-ban-on-chinese-apps-china-309601">Also Read: Strongly concerned over India's ban on Chinese apps: China</a>

The Indian government had on Monday banned 59 Chinese apps amid the India-China standoff at Galwan Valley.

Other than TikTok, the apps which were banned included UC Browser, SHAREit, Baidu map, Shein, clash of Kings, DU battery saver, Helo, Likee, YouCam makeup, Mi Community, CM Browsers, Virus Cleaner, Apus Browser and many more. 
&nbsp;

After the Indian government decided to ban 59 Chinese apps, TikTok CEO Kevin Mayer addressed the Indian employees, saying that the company is working with stakeholders to address their concerns.

After the Indian government decided to ban 59 Chinese apps, TikTok CEO Kevin Mayer addressed the Indian employees, saying that the company is working with stakeholders to address their concerns. "TikTok continues to comply with all data privacy and security requirements under Indian law and places the highest importance on user privacy and integrity," said Kevin Mayer. "Our employees are our biggest strength, and their well-being is our topmost priority. We have also assured more than 2,000 strong workforce that we will do everything in our power to restore the positive experiences and opportunities that they can be proud of," the TikTok CEO said. Also Read: India bans Chinese apps: What does the decision mean for Beijing? He further said that the company look forward to play an active role in the mainframe of Digital India. Kevin Mayer took over as TikTok CEO in June, 2019 and the ban on the app by the Indian government is the first big challenge he faces. Earlier on Tuesday, TikTok India responding to the ban said, "The government of India has issued an interim order for the blocking of 59 apps, including TikTok and we are in the process of complying with it. We have been invited to meet with concerned government stakeholders for an opportunity to respond and submit clarifications." Also Read: Strongly concerned over India's ban on Chinese apps: China The Indian government had on Monday banned 59 Chinese apps amid the India-China standoff at Galwan Valley. Other than TikTok, the apps which were banned included UC Browser, SHAREit, Baidu map, Shein, clash of Kings, DU battery saver, Helo, Likee, YouCam makeup, Mi Community, CM Browsers, Virus Cleaner, Apus Browser and many more.

TikTok CEO addresses Indian employees, says your well-being is our topmost priority

Amazon's game streaming platform&nbsp;Twitch temporarily suspended President Donald Trump's channel and social media site Reddit&nbsp;on Monday shut down r/The_Donald, a forum which long served as a popular online home base for fans of President Donald Trump, saying it violated the site's hate speech rules.

Reddit&nbsp;Chief Executive Steve Huffman said in a post detailing changes to the company's content policies that communities and users promoting hate would be barred.&nbsp;Reddit&nbsp;was banning about 2,000 subreddits, the majority of which were inactive, he said.

"r/The_Donald" was among some 2,000 forums or "subreddits" banned as tightening of rules at the news-focused social website, Reddit said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-disables-trump-campaign-tribute-to-floyd-for-copyright-foul-303548">Twitter disables Trump campaign tribute to Floyd for copyright foul</a>

"Hateful conduct is not allowed on Twitch," a spokesperson said.

"We do not make exceptions for political or newsworthy content, and will take action on content reported to us that violates our rules."

Twitch said the offending comments aired on the channel included Trump's remarks from 2015 saying that Mexicans coming into the United States were "bringing drugs," "bringing crime" and were "rapists."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-takes-down-trump-ads-for-violating-its-policy-against-organised-hate-306951">Facebook takes down Trump ads for violating its policy against 'organised hate'</a>

Also cited were his statements from a recent Tulsa rally that "a very tough hombre is breaking into the window of a young woman whose husband is away."

In response to the actions by&nbsp;Reddit&nbsp;and Twitch, a Trump campaign spokesman directed people to Trump's campaign app "to hear directly from the president." He did not directly address the sites' actions.

The move comes with online platforms facing pressure to crack down on hateful content, including from the president, amid a broad movement to address racial equity in the wake of police killings of African-Americans.

Trump has complained that Silicon Valley platforms are biased against conservatives, despite his own large social media following.

Huffman said earlier this month that&nbsp;Reddit&nbsp;would strengthen its content policy, after&nbsp;Reddit&nbsp;co-founder Alexis Ohanian resigned from the firm's board and former CEO Ellen Pao criticized its handling of r/The_Donald.

Reddit last year "quarantined" the pro-Trump forum for promoting violence and on Monday removed it.

The new list of banned subreddits also included the left-wing r/ChapoTrapHouse, which Huffman said consistently hosted rule-breaking content. It had an average of 42,949 daily active users, according to&nbsp;Reddit.

Reddit's list showed r/The_Donald had an average of 7,780 daily active users, down from its heyday around the 2016 presidential election when it regularly drew hundreds of thousands of visitors each day.

Only about 200 of the banned forums listed by&nbsp;Reddit&nbsp;had more than 10 daily users.

Amazon's game streaming platform Twitch temporarily suspended President Donald Trump's channel and social media site Reddit on Monday shut down r/The_Donald, a forum which long served as a popular online home base for fans of President Donald Trump, saying it violated the site's hate speech rules.

Amazon's game streaming platform Twitch temporarily suspended President Donald Trump's channel and social media site Reddit on Monday shut down r/The_Donald, a forum which long served as a popular online home base for fans of President Donald Trump, saying it violated the site's hate speech rules. Reddit Chief Executive Steve Huffman said in a post detailing changes to the company's content policies that communities and users promoting hate would be barred. Reddit was banning about 2,000 subreddits, the majority of which were inactive, he said. "r/The_Donald" was among some 2,000 forums or "subreddits" banned as tightening of rules at the news-focused social website, Reddit said. Also read: Twitter disables Trump campaign tribute to Floyd for copyright foul "Hateful conduct is not allowed on Twitch," a spokesperson said. "We do not make exceptions for political or newsworthy content, and will take action on content reported to us that violates our rules." Twitch said the offending comments aired on the channel included Trump's remarks from 2015 saying that Mexicans coming into the United States were "bringing drugs," "bringing crime" and were "rapists." Also read: Facebook takes down Trump ads for violating its policy against 'organised hate' Also cited were his statements from a recent Tulsa rally that "a very tough hombre is breaking into the window of a young woman whose husband is away." In response to the actions by Reddit and Twitch, a Trump campaign spokesman directed people to Trump's campaign app "to hear directly from the president." He did not directly address the sites' actions. The move comes with online platforms facing pressure to crack down on hateful content, including from the president, amid a broad movement to address racial equity in the wake of police killings of African-Americans. Trump has complained that Silicon Valley platforms are biased against conservatives, despite his own large social media following. Huffman said earlier this month that Reddit would strengthen its content policy, after Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian resigned from the firm's board and former CEO Ellen Pao criticized its handling of r/The_Donald. Reddit last year "quarantined" the pro-Trump forum for promoting violence and on Monday removed it. The new list of banned subreddits also included the left-wing r/ChapoTrapHouse, which Huffman said consistently hosted rule-breaking content. It had an average of 42,949 daily active users, according to Reddit. Reddit's list showed r/The_Donald had an average of 7,780 daily active users, down from its heyday around the 2016 presidential election when it regularly drew hundreds of thousands of visitors each day. Only about 200 of the banned forums listed by Reddit had more than 10 daily users.

Twitch, Reddit ban pro-Trump content amid hate speech crackdown

In the midst of ongoing tension at Sino-Indian border after a standoff with Chinese forces along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh, the government of India on Monday decided to ban at least 59 Chinese apps.

Since the government banned 59 Chinese apps over national security concerns, &nbsp;Indians have rushed to download social app Chingari, a desi alternative to Chinese TikTok. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tiktoks-indian-alternative-chingari-app-crosses-over-3-million-downloads-309634">Also Read:&nbsp;TikTok's Indian alternative Chingari app crosses over 3 million downloads</a>

Here is all you need to know about Chingari app:&nbsp;

1. Chingari app was founded by Bengaluru-based programmers Biswatma Nayak and Siddharth Gautam in 2019

2. The app is available in multiple languages including English, Hindi, Bangla, Gujarati, Marathi, Kannada, Punjabi, Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu.

3. The app also rewards the users on the basis of how viral the video becomes.

4. The Chingari app is available for free download on both Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

5. Chingari allows users&nbsp;to download and upload videos, chat with friends, interact with new people, share content, and browse through the feed. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

In the midst of ongoing tension at Sino-Indian border after a standoff with Chinese forces along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh, the government of India on Monday decided to ban at least 59 Chinese apps.

In the midst of ongoing tension at Sino-Indian border after a standoff with Chinese forces along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh, the government of India on Monday decided to ban at least 59 Chinese apps. Since the government banned 59 Chinese apps over national security concerns, Indians have rushed to download social app Chingari, a desi alternative to Chinese TikTok. Also Read: TikTok's Indian alternative Chingari app crosses over 3 million downloads Here is all you need to know about Chingari app: 1. Chingari app was founded by Bengaluru-based programmers Biswatma Nayak and Siddharth Gautam in 2019 2. The app is available in multiple languages including English, Hindi, Bangla, Gujarati, Marathi, Kannada, Punjabi, Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu. 3. The app also rewards the users on the basis of how viral the video becomes. 4. The Chingari app is available for free download on both Google Play Store and Apple App Store. 5. Chingari allows users to download and upload videos, chat with friends, interact with new people, share content, and browse through the feed. (With inputs from agencies)

TikTok banned: All you need to know about its Indian rival Chingari app

The Indian alternative to TikTok, Chingari, has crossed over 3 million downloads.&nbsp;

The app, founded by Bengaluru-based programmers Biswatma Nayak and Siddharth Gautam last year, allows users to download and upload videos, chat with friends, interact with new people, share content and browse through the feed.&nbsp;

Biswatma Nayak&nbsp;said, "In the last few days, we have witnessed a 400 per cent growth in the subscribers of the app." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bans-59-chinese-apps-including-tiktok-shareit-uc-browser-citing-national-security-309464">Also Read: India bans 59 Chinese apps including TikTok, Shareit citing national security</a>

The app also rewards the users on the basis of how viral the video becomes. Chingari app can be downloaded through Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

The app is available in multiple languages including English, Hindi, Bangla, Gujarati, Marathi, Kannada, Punjabi, Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-tiktok-is-a-threat-to-national-security-if-left-unchecked-300976">Also Read: Why TikTok is a threat to national security</a>

In the midst of ongoing tension at Sino-Indian border after a standoff with Chinese forces along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh, the government of India on Monday took an unprecedented step and decided to ban at least 59 Chinese apps. 
 
"This move will safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace," announced Ministry of Electronics and IT. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian alternative to TikTok, Chingari, has crossed over 3 million downloads. The app, founded by Bengaluru-based programmers Biswatma Nayak and Siddharth Gautam last year, allows users to download and upload videos, chat with friends, interact with new people, share content and browse through the feed.

The Indian alternative to TikTok, Chingari, has crossed over 3 million downloads. The app, founded by Bengaluru-based programmers Biswatma Nayak and Siddharth Gautam last year, allows users to download and upload videos, chat with friends, interact with new people, share content and browse through the feed. Biswatma Nayak said, "In the last few days, we have witnessed a 400 per cent growth in the subscribers of the app." Also Read: India bans 59 Chinese apps including TikTok, Shareit citing national security The app also rewards the users on the basis of how viral the video becomes. Chingari app can be downloaded through Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The app is available in multiple languages including English, Hindi, Bangla, Gujarati, Marathi, Kannada, Punjabi, Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu. Also Read: Why TikTok is a threat to national security In the midst of ongoing tension at Sino-Indian border after a standoff with Chinese forces along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh, the government of India on Monday took an unprecedented step and decided to ban at least 59 Chinese apps. "This move will safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace," announced Ministry of Electronics and IT. (With inputs from agencies)

TikTok's Indian alternative Chingari app crosses over 3 million downloads

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