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Ring's Return to Surveillance-First Approach Sparks Privacy Concerns

2025-07-20

Ring's Return to Surveillance-First Approach Sparks Privacy Concerns

Ring founder Jamie Siminoff's return to the helm signals a return to the company's controversial 'surveillance-first, privacy-second' approach. This includes reinstating features allowing police direct access to user footage and introducing a new feature granting live-stream access to home security devices. This raises serious privacy concerns, particularly given past instances of police using Ring footage to surveil protestors without warrants or consent. Ring's proclaimed shift to an 'AI-first' company suggests the potential integration of video analytics or facial recognition into its already problematic devices. Critics argue this poses a grave threat to civil liberties and could facilitate tracking of individuals for reasons such as abortion or immigration enforcement.

(www.eff.org)

Tech

Axon's Draft One: AI Police Report Generator Raises Transparency Concerns

2025-07-13

Axon's Draft One: AI Police Report Generator Raises Transparency Concerns

Axon's Draft One, an AI tool generating police reports from bodycam audio, is designed to hinder audits and public accountability, according to an EFF investigation. The system obscures the distinction between AI-generated and officer-edited content, deleting the initial AI draft upon closure. This lack of transparency makes it difficult to assess the AI's impact on report accuracy and fairness, raising serious concerns about justice outcomes. Legislative efforts are underway to increase transparency and accountability for AI-generated police reports.

(www.eff.org)

Tech

NO FAKES Act: A Censorship Nightmare in the Making

2025-06-24

Intended to combat misinformation and defamation from generative AI, the NO FAKES Act has morphed into a potential internet-altering censorship machine. Initially aiming to address AI-generated “replicas” with broad new intellectual property rights, the bill’s approach backfired. The updated version mandates a sweeping censorship infrastructure, requiring platforms to remove content, filter tools, and even unmask users based on mere allegations. This threatens free speech, innovation, and could be weaponized against dissent. The Act empowers rights-holders, stifles competition, and risks excessive censorship.

(www.eff.org)

Tech

DMCA Section 1201: A Stifling Triennial Exemption Process

2025-06-07

DMCA Section 1201: A Stifling Triennial Exemption Process

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is investigating anti-competitive regulations, and the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) has highlighted the DMCA's Section 1201 triennial exemption process as a major obstacle to innovation. The cumbersome process hinders fair use, making it difficult for individuals and organizations to engage in commentary, research, education, and repair. EFF urges the FTC to recommend that Congress repeal or reform Section 1201, or at least fundamentally revise the 2026 rulemaking process, ensuring copyright law fosters, rather than hinders, competition and independent innovation.

(www.eff.org)

Tech

Washington State Passes Landmark Right-to-Repair Legislation

2025-06-04

Washington State Passes Landmark Right-to-Repair Legislation

Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson signed two bills guaranteeing the right to repair personal electronics, appliances, and wheelchairs, a major victory for the right-to-repair movement. Supported by public interest groups and tech giants like Google and Microsoft, the legislation ensures access to tools, parts, and information needed for repairs. The impact extends beyond consumers; the US Army is also incorporating right-to-repair provisions into future contracts, acknowledging the limitations of relying on single suppliers for maintenance. This highlights the broader implications of right-to-repair, affecting everything from personal convenience to national security and economic efficiency.

(www.eff.org)

Tech tech legislation

John Young, Cryptome Founder, Dies at 89: A Champion of Information Freedom

2025-05-18

John Young, Cryptome Founder, Dies at 89: A Champion of Information Freedom

John Young, who passed away at 89, was a pioneer of online transparency. In 1996, he and his wife Deborah Natsios founded Cryptome, an online library dedicated to publishing documents concerning government secrecy, national security, and encryption. Cryptome became a crucial resource during the 'crypto wars' of the 90s, providing vital information to activists and lawyers fighting for encryption freedom. Despite facing pressure from the FBI, Secret Service, and tech giants, Young remained unwavering in his commitment to public access to information. While initially involved with WikiLeaks, he later parted ways due to disagreements. Young's legacy is one of unwavering dedication to the public's right to know.

(www.eff.org)

Tech information freedom

Montana Closes the Data Broker Loophole: A Win for Privacy

2025-05-16

Montana Closes the Data Broker Loophole: A Win for Privacy

Montana has become the first state to successfully close the 'data broker loophole,' a practice that allows law enforcement to circumvent warrants by purchasing personal information from data brokers. The new law, SB 282, prohibits government agencies from using funds to obtain electronic communications data, tracking device information, financial transaction data, pseudonymous information, or 'sensitive data' (including details on personal life, religious affiliation, health status, biometric data, and precise geolocation). While law enforcement can still obtain information through warrants or consent, this legislation represents a significant step towards protecting citizen privacy and sets a precedent for other states to follow.

(www.eff.org)

Tech

23andMe Bankruptcy: Your Genetic Data is For Sale – Delete It Now!

2025-03-26

23andMe Bankruptcy: Your Genetic Data is For Sale – Delete It Now!

Genetic testing company 23andMe has filed for bankruptcy, putting the genetic data of millions of users up for sale. To protect your privacy, users are urged to immediately download and delete their data from 23andMe. The article provides a step-by-step guide on how to download your data and delete your account, emphasizing the critical need to protect this sensitive information. The incident highlights the importance of genetic data privacy, and other companies in the field should take note and improve their data security practices.

(www.eff.org)

Tech genetic data privacy

Senators Eye Gutting Section 230: A Threat to Everyday Internet Users

2025-03-25

Senators Eye Gutting Section 230: A Threat to Everyday Internet Users

Several Senators are again attempting to dismantle Section 230, a crucial law protecting internet users. Contrary to claims that it only shields Big Tech, Section 230 provides limited liability for all platforms, disproportionately benefiting smaller ones and individual users. Repealing it would solidify Big Tech monopolies and harm individuals' ability to speak, organize, and create online. The law allows platforms to moderate content without facing publisher liability, incentivizing them to combat illegal activity and harmful content. Repeal would create the opposite effect, leading to a surge in harmful online material.

(www.eff.org)

Tech Section 230 online speech

France Rejects Backdoor Attempt on End-to-End Encryption

2025-03-21

France Rejects Backdoor Attempt on End-to-End Encryption

The French National Assembly wisely rejected a dangerous proposal that would have undermined end-to-end encryption. This ill-conceived bill, ostensibly aimed at fighting drug trafficking, would have forced messaging apps to allow covert access to private conversations. Security experts warned of the systemic vulnerabilities this 'ghost' participant model would create, eroding trust and creating opportunities for abuse. The vote is a victory for digital rights and privacy, demonstrating that prioritizing security doesn't require sacrificing fundamental freedoms. This decision serves as a crucial warning to other governments considering similar anti-encryption measures.

(www.eff.org)

Tech digital rights

USPTO Restricts Patent Challenges, Empowering Patent Trolls

2025-03-21

USPTO Restricts Patent Challenges, Empowering Patent Trolls

The USPTO recently issued a memo further restricting access to inter partes review (IPR), making it harder for the public to challenge invalid patents. This decision protects bad patents, emboldens patent trolls, and makes it easier for large corporations to weaponize weak patents against smaller businesses and developers. IPR was created to correct errors in patent examination, offering a faster, cheaper way to challenge patent validity. The USPTO's move uses 'discretionary denials' to limit IPR, making patent challenges more difficult and allowing patent trolls to leverage lawsuits for quick settlements. This undermines Congress's intent and harms the public interest.

(www.eff.org)

Tech patent patent trolls

Remembering Mark Klein: Whistleblower Who Exposed NSA's Room 641A

2025-03-12

Remembering Mark Klein: Whistleblower Who Exposed NSA's Room 641A

Mark Klein, a former AT&T technician, passed away recently. He's remembered for his courageous act of exposing the NSA's secret mass surveillance program, codenamed Room 641A. Risking significant legal repercussions, Klein provided evidence to the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), leading to lawsuits and reforms. While the fight against mass surveillance continues, Klein's bravery inspired countless individuals and will continue to motivate EFF's ongoing efforts to protect privacy.

(www.eff.org)

Tech mass surveillance

The TAKE IT DOWN Act: A Threat to Free Speech?

2025-03-08

The TAKE IT DOWN Act: A Threat to Free Speech?

The Senate is debating the TAKE IT DOWN Act, aiming to expedite the removal of non-consensual intimate imagery (NCII). However, the bill's mandated 48-hour notice-and-takedown system lacks safeguards, potentially leading to censorship of lawful speech and threatening user privacy and due process. The bill's broad definitions and tight deadlines could force online services to rely on automated filters, wrongly flagging legitimate content. Furthermore, the Act threatens encrypted services, potentially leading to the abandonment of privacy protections. Existing laws already provide sufficient tools to address NCII; Congress should focus on enforcing and improving these, rather than implementing a broad takedown regime prone to abuse.

(www.eff.org)

Tech

Age Verification Laws: A Trojan Horse for Mass Surveillance

2025-03-07

Initially intended to protect children from harmful online content, age verification laws have morphed into a massive surveillance apparatus. From skincare products to dating apps and diet pills, the requirement to verify age is expanding, collecting vast amounts of personal data from all users. This isn't accidental; it's a deliberate strategy. Legislators leveraged concerns about child safety online to gradually expand age verification, ultimately aiming to build a comprehensive surveillance system. This practice not only violates the privacy of all users but also seriously threatens online freedom. We must resist this privacy-invasive legislation and explore more effective, less invasive methods of protecting children online.

(www.eff.org)

Tech

Trump's Support for the 'Take It Down' Act Threatens Free Speech

2025-03-06

Trump's Support for the 'Take It Down' Act Threatens Free Speech

President Trump's endorsement of the 'Take It Down Act,' aimed at combating non-consensual intimate imagery (NCII), has raised serious concerns. Critics argue its vague definitions and lack of safeguards could be easily exploited to suppress dissenting voices. Trump himself stated he would use the bill to remove content critical of him. The article highlights the bill's 48-hour takedown deadline and absence of penalties, making it difficult for platforms to verify requests, potentially leading to the removal of legitimate content. The author urges Congress to reject the bill, focusing instead on existing laws to address NCII, rather than enacting a hastily drafted measure that could stifle free speech.

(www.eff.org)

Tech legislative risk

Utah Bill Demands Transparency for AI-Generated Police Reports

2025-02-22

Utah Bill Demands Transparency for AI-Generated Police Reports

A Utah Senate bill (S.B. 180) would mandate disclosure when police reports are generated by AI. The bill requires police departments to establish AI usage policies, including disclaimers on AI-generated content and officer certification of accuracy. This follows the rapid spread of Axon's Draft One, which uses bodycam audio to create reports. Critics warn of AI's potential to misinterpret language, provide plausible deniability for officers, and compromise justice. King County, Washington prosecutors have already instructed officers to avoid using the technology. While a step towards regulation, stronger oversight is needed to address the concerns surrounding AI in law enforcement.

(www.eff.org)

Tech AI in law enforcement police reports

Google's AI Principles: From 'Don't Be Evil' to Military-Industrial Complex?

2025-02-20

Google's AI Principles: From 'Don't Be Evil' to Military-Industrial Complex?

Google's abandonment of its 'Don't Be Evil' motto continues, as its entanglement with the military-industrial complex deepens. The company removed four key points from its AI principles: no involvement in weapons, surveillance, technologies causing harm, or those violating international law and human rights. Instead, it emphasizes democracies leading AI development and collaboration with governments for 'AI that protects people, promotes global growth, and supports national security.' This suggests potential involvement in AI weapons systems and surveillance using its vast computing power. This decision, following criticism from EFF and human rights groups, particularly concerning Project Nimbus (providing advanced tech to the Israeli government), raises serious ethical concerns. Google's prioritization of profit over human rights, driven by lucrative defense contracts, is evident. The potential for AI-powered autonomous weapons, targeting software, and intelligence analysis poses significant threats to individuals.

(www.eff.org)

Tech Military-Industrial Complex

California Bill Aims to Restrict Minors' Social Media Use

2025-02-15

California Bill Aims to Restrict Minors' Social Media Use

California is considering the 'Protecting Our Kids from Social Media Addiction Act' (SB 976), aiming to limit minors' social media access. The bill centers on prohibiting minors from using personalized recommendation systems, a core feature of most platforms. This sparks debate over minors' First Amendment rights, as such restrictions could impede their ability to speak and access information online.

(www.eff.org)

Misc minors

Escaping Meta's Surveillance State: Practical Steps to Limit Data Tracking

2025-02-07

Escaping Meta's Surveillance State: Practical Steps to Limit Data Tracking

Meta's business model relies on extensive data collection across millions of websites and apps, even if you delete your Facebook and Instagram accounts. This article reveals Meta's data harvesting methods and provides practical steps to limit its tracking, including updating Meta account settings, installing the Privacy Badger browser extension, and disabling your phone's advertising ID and location access. Ultimately, the author calls for strong federal privacy legislation to truly protect user data from exploitation.

(www.eff.org)

Tech tracking

Massive California Law Enforcement Database Abuse Revealed

2025-01-30

Massive California Law Enforcement Database Abuse Revealed

A report from the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) exposes widespread abuse of sensitive criminal justice databases by California law enforcement agencies. In 2023 alone, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LACSD) accounted for a majority of the state's 7,275 reported violations of the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS), with 6,789 abuses primarily involving unauthorized background checks for concealed carry permits. Other abuses included using data for personal vendettas and password sharing. From 2019-2023, 761 investigations revealed at least 7,635 violations across the state, leading to suspensions, resignations, and firings of officers. The report highlights the need for stronger oversight of law enforcement databases.

(www.eff.org)

Tech database abuse

Texas Data Privacy Lawsuit: Allstate Accused of Illegally Collecting Driver Data

2025-01-25

Texas Data Privacy Lawsuit: Allstate Accused of Illegally Collecting Driver Data

The Texas Attorney General's office filed its first lawsuit under the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA), targeting Allstate Corporation for allegedly sharing driver location and other driving data without user consent. Allstate and its subsidiary, Arity, are accused of secretly collecting and selling "trillions of miles" of driving behavior data through a software development kit (SDK) embedded in third-party apps like Life360. This violates Texas' privacy law, which mandates notice and consent for processing sensitive data. While the Texas law has shortcomings, such as limiting lawsuits to the Attorney General, this case highlights the need for stronger data privacy enforcement and sets a precedent for other states.

(www.eff.org)

Tech

Federal Court Rules Backdoor Searches of 702 Data Unconstitutional

2025-01-22

Federal Court Rules Backdoor Searches of 702 Data Unconstitutional

A federal district court has ruled that backdoor searches of databases containing Americans' private communications, collected under Section 702, typically require a warrant. This landmark ruling, following over a decade of litigation, rejects the government's claim that such searches can be conducted warrantlessly. Organizations like the EFF have long argued this practice is unconstitutional, and the court's decision is a significant victory for privacy rights. The ruling calls for Congressional reform of Section 702 to prevent future abuses.

(www.eff.org)

Tech Section 702 privacy rights unconstitutional

Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban: A Blow to Free Speech?

2025-01-18

Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban: A Blow to Free Speech?

The US Supreme Court upheld the ban on TikTok, sparking a debate over free speech and data privacy. The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) expressed deep disappointment, arguing the court failed to adequately scrutinize the ban's impact on the First Amendment. EFF contends the ban is content-based, aiming to control what Americans see and share, rather than addressing genuine data security concerns. The EFF believes shutting down or forcing the sale of social media platforms under national security pretenses is anti-democratic, advocating for comprehensive privacy legislation instead of sacrificing free speech.

(www.eff.org)

Tech TikTok ban

Playing Cards Satirizing CEOs Spark Censorship Frenzy

2025-01-14

James Harr, owner of ComradeWorkwear, planned to release a deck of playing cards satirizing CEOs, sparking a censorship storm across social media and payment platforms. Following a New York Post article, Harr was questioned by police, and his company and personal accounts were subsequently banned by platforms like TikTok and Shopify, with PayPal halting payments. This highlights the arbitrary and opaque nature of content moderation on large tech platforms and the potential threat to free speech, even when content doesn't violate platform rules. Harr's experience isn't unique; many users expressing negative views on large corporations faced similar treatment.

(www.eff.org)

Tech censorship tech platforms

Meta's New Content Policy: A Blow to Vulnerable Users

2025-01-10

Meta's New Content Policy: A Blow to Vulnerable Users

The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) criticizes Meta's recent content moderation policy changes, arguing they don't truly promote free speech but could harm vulnerable groups. The new policy allows dehumanizing statements about certain vulnerable groups, particularly LGBTQ+ individuals, and loosens restrictions on hate speech. EFF urges Meta to address biases in its content moderation, invest more in its global user base, improve multilingual support, reduce reliance on automated tools, and increase transparency.

(www.eff.org)

Tech vulnerable users

Real-Time Bidding: The Mass Surveillance System You've Never Heard Of

2025-01-07

Real-Time Bidding: The Mass Surveillance System You've Never Heard Of

Every targeted ad you see is powered by a system called "real-time bidding" (RTB). This system isn't just about delivering ads; it's a massive surveillance network. RTB broadcasts your personal information—location, IP address, interests, and more—to thousands of companies daily. This data fuels targeted advertising but also flows to government agencies and data brokers for surveillance and commercial purposes. The article exposes how RTB facilitates government surveillance, poses national security risks, and how banning online behavioral advertising is crucial for protecting individual privacy.

(www.eff.org)

Tech surveillance real-time bidding