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EU Investigating Facebook and Instagram Over Their Handling of Disinformation Ahead of the Election

EU Investigating Disinformation on Facebook and Instagram Ahead of Election

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Facebook and Instagram owned by Meta Platforms are being investigated by the European Commission for possible violations of EU online content regulations. EU IT regulators have responded to concerns over misleading advertising and misinformation ahead of the elections to the European Parliament.

Worries Regarding Deceitful Activities

EU Investigating Facebook and Instagram Over Their Handling of Disinformation Ahead of the Election

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Growing worries regarding the dissemination of false information from both internal and external sources are reflected in the actions taken by EU authorities. The EU is concentrating on combating dishonest activities within its borders, especially by political parties and organisations looking to influence voters with misleading material, as Russia, China, and Iran have been identified as possible suppliers of misinformation.

Authority for Regulation: Digital Services Act

The Digital Services Act (DSA), which mandates that large digital companies take more aggressive action against unlawful and damaging information on their networks, provides the basis for the probe. There are severe penalties for breaking DSA commitments; these fines can reach 6% of a company’s yearly global revenue.

Doubts Regarding Meta's Moderation

Margrethe Vestager, the EU’s digital leader, voiced concerns over Meta’s moderation methods, pointing to a lack of transparency and inadequate action in relation to misleading marketing and content moderation processes. In order to evaluate Meta’s compliance with the DSA, the Commission has started procedures. The investigation will concentrate on matters like coordinated inauthentic behaviour and misinformation operations.

Meta's Reaction

With more than 250 million monthly active users throughout the EU, Meta justified its risk mitigation strategy by emphasising the protocols it has put in place for locating and resolving threats on its platforms. The business said that it would be happy to work with the European Commission and share more information about the steps it is taking to reduce risk.

Particular Issues the Commission Has Raised

Ahead of the elections to the European Parliament, the Commission brought up a number of specific concerns, chief among them being the absence of a reliable third-party platform for real-time civic discourse and election monitoring. Furthermore, criticism has been levelled at Meta for its choice to phase down CrowdTangle, its misinformation-tracking tool, without a viable successor.

Next Actions

Five working days have been granted to Meta to notify the EU of the corrective measures implemented in response to the Commission’s concerns. The investigation’s conclusion will have a big impact on Meta’s business operations in the EU and potentially influence future laws that fight false advertising and internet misinformation.

In summary, The EU’s investigation into Meta over claims of misleading advertising and misinformation highlights the need for strong regulatory frameworks to protect the integrity of online material. In order to stop the spread of false information and preserve democratic values in the digital era, regulatory oversight is crucial given the growing influence that digital platforms have on public opinion.

 
Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Others Launch Child Safety Initiative

Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Others Launch Child Safety Initiative

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In an unprecedented move, tech behemoths Google, Microsoft, Facebook parent Meta, and seven leading AI companies have joined forces to combat the proliferation of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on the internet. This coalition, spearheaded by non-profit organizations Thorn and All Tech is Human, marks a significant step in leveraging advanced technologies to protect vulnerable individuals.

The Genesis of Collaboration

Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Others Launch Child Safety Initiative

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Thorn, founded in 2012 by Hollywood icons Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher under its previous moniker, the DNA Foundation, has been at the forefront of developing tools to shield children from sexual exploitation. Their collaboration with All Tech is Human, based in New York, has catalyzed this groundbreaking alliance aimed at implementing robust safeguards within generative AI systems.

Safety by Design: A Paradigm Shift

Central to this initiative is the adoption of a “Safety by Design” principle in generative AI development. This paradigm advocates for preemptive measures that thwart the creation of CSAM throughout the entire lifecycle of an AI model. The newly released Thorn report underscores the urgency of embracing these principles, particularly in light of the escalating threat posed by AI-generated CSAM (AIG-CSAM).

Thorn’s impact report for 2022 revealed a staggering 824,466 instances of child abuse material identified. Last year, over 104 million suspected CSAM files were reported in the United States alone, underscoring the critical need for proactive interventions.

Tackling the Deepfake Menace

One of the most alarming trends addressed by this coalition is the surge in deepfake child pornography. With the accessibility of generative AI models, standalone systems capable of generating illicit content have proliferated on dark web platforms. This exponential growth in deepfake CSAM poses a grave challenge to law enforcement and child protection advocates.

Generative AI technologies have streamlined the process of content creation, enabling malicious actors to produce large volumes of CSAM by manipulating original images and videos. Thorn’s call to action urges all stakeholders in the AI ecosystem to commit to preventing the dissemination and production of CSAM, thereby safeguarding vulnerable populations from exploitation.

The collective resolve of industry leaders, non-profit organizations, and advocacy groups underscores a paradigm shift towards responsible AI deployment. By prioritizing safety and ethical considerations in AI development, this coalition sets a precedent for leveraging technology as a force for societal good, particularly in protecting the most vulnerable members of our global community.

Facebook Messenger Enhances User Experience with HD Photos, Shared Albums, and Expanded File Sharing

Facebook Messenger Enhances User Experience with HD Photos, Shared Albums, and Expanded File Sharing

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In a significant update aimed at improving the user experience, Facebook Messenger has introduced a several of new features, including support for high-definition (HD) photos, the ability to create shared albums, and increased limits for file sharing. These updates are designed to improve the quality of interactions and facilitate easier sharing between users, further strengthening the messenger’s position as a leading platform for personal and group communication.

High-Definition Photos for Crystal-Clear Memories

Facebook Messenger Enhances User Experience with HD Photos, Shared Albums, and Expanded File Sharing

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Understanding the importance of quality in media sharing, Facebook Messenger has now enabled users to send and receive photos in HD quality. This update ensures that images retain their clarity and detail, making photo sharing a more vibrant and enjoyable experience. Whether it’s capturing a breathtaking landscape or a special moment with loved ones, users can now rely on Messenger to deliver photos that look as good as when they were taken.

Shared Albums to Keep Memories Together

In addition to HD photos, the messenger has introduced the concept of shared albums. This feature allows users to create albums collaboratively within the chat, where everyone can add their own photos. Shared albums are perfect for compiling memories from group events, trips, or projects, making it easier than ever to keep all related photos in one place. This collaborative feature encourages a sense of community and shared memories between friends and family members.

Bigger Files, Broader Sharing

Recognizing the diverse needs of its user base, Facebook Messenger has also expanded its file-sharing capabilities. Users can now send large files directly through the messaging service, making it a more versatile tool for both personal and business communication. This upgrade addresses the growing demand for sharing extensive documents, presentations, and other types of files that exceed previous size limits.

A Seamless and Integrated Experience

These updates are part of Facebook Messenger’s ongoing efforts to provide a seamless, integrated experience for its users. Messenger aims to remain at the forefront of digital communications by continuously introducing innovative features and improvements. The platform’s commitment to increasing connectivity and interaction between its users is evident in these latest updates, which are expected to be well received by the messenger community.

Also Read: Spanish Data Startup Onum Secures $28M Funding to Growth US Expansion

Conclusion

As digital communications continues to evolve, Facebook Messenger’s latest updates reflect its dedication to user needs and embracing technological advancements. By supporting HD photos, shared albums, and large file shares, the Messenger is not only increasing the quality of shared content but also fostering a more connected and collaborative environment for its users. These updates are available now, ensuring that Messenger remains a platform of choice for millions of people around the world who want to share their moments and documents with ease and clarity.

Facebook, Instagram and Threads all Shut Down Due to Massive Meta Outage

Facebook, Instagram, and Threads all Shut Down Due to Massive Meta Outage

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In an unexpected turn of events, major social media platforms Facebook, Instagram, and Threads experienced a widespread outage, leaving millions of users disconnected from their digital lives. This global disruption has raised questions about the stability and reliability of relying on centralized platforms for communication and business operations.

The Outage Explained

Facebook, Instagram and Threads all Shut Down Due to Massive Meta Outage

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Early reports indicate that the outage began in the late hours of Tuesday, affecting users across multiple continents. Both individual users and businesses reported an inability to access their accounts, post content, or engage with others on the platforms. The cause of the outage has yet to be officially confirmed by Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.

User Impact and Response

The sudden disconnection left many in a state of confusion and frustration. For a world already deeply integrated with social media for personal communication, entertainment, and business, the absence of these services was keenly felt. Users took to other platforms such as Twitter to share their experiences, seek information, and, in many cases, share humor about the situation.

Business Disruption

Beyond the inconvenience to casual users, the outage has significant implications for businesses and creators who rely on these platforms for marketing, sales, and community engagement. The downtime underscores the vulnerabilities businesses face in a digital-first economy, highlighting the need for diversified communication channels.

Meta's Response

Meta has acknowledged the issue, stating that they are actively working to resolve the outage and restore service as soon as possible. In a brief statement, the company expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to users and assured that updates would follow as more information becomes available.

Also Read: Sorry iPhone users, Samsung Galaxy Ring will not be Compatible with your iPhone

Looking Ahead: Implications for Digital Reliance

This incident serves as a critical reminder of the challenges and risks associated with the global community’s heavy reliance on a few dominant platforms for digital communication and commerce. As Meta works to resolve the current outage, the event may spark broader discussions about the need for more resilient digital infrastructure and the role of decentralization in mitigating such risks.

Conclusion

The global outage affecting Facebook, Instagram, and Threads has brought to light the vulnerabilities inherent in our digital ecosystem. As the world waits for a resolution, the incident prompts reflection on our dependence on technology and the importance of safeguarding our digital society against future disruptions.

The Ultimate Guide to Recovering Deleted Posts on Facebook

The Ultimate Guide to Recovering Deleted Posts on Facebook

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Facebook, with its billions of users, is a treasure trove of memories, moments, and messages. Whether it’s a heartfelt post, a beloved photo, or a lively discussion, the content we share on Facebook often holds significant emotional value. But what happens when a post you love gets accidentally deleted? Is it gone forever, or is there any hope for recovery? Let’s look at the possibilities and find out how to recover deleted posts on Facebook.

Understanding Facebook's Data Policy

The Ultimate Guide to Recovering Deleted Posts on Facebook

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First, it’s important to understand what happens behind the scenes when you delete a post on Facebook. According to the platform’s data policy, deleting a post removes it from your profile, timeline, and Facebook’s servers. This action is generally considered permanent, with Facebook saying that once a post is deleted, it cannot be recovered.

Steps to Attempt Recovery of a Deleted Post

While the official stance might seem discouraging, there are a few avenues you can explore in your quest to recover lost content.

Checking the Activity Log

Your Activity Log is a comprehensive record of your activities on Facebook, including posts, comments, and likes. Although this will not allow you to directly recover deleted posts, it may provide clues or remains of lost content.

Exploring the Archive Feature

Facebook offers an archive feature for posts that you no longer want to appear on your timeline but aren’t ready to delete permanently. If you’ve used this feature, recovering your content is as simple as accessing your archive and restoring the post.

Downloading Your Facebook Data

Downloading your Facebook data from time to time can serve as a preventive measure, ensuring that you have a backup of all your content, including posts. If you did this before deleting a post, you may still find the content in your downloaded files.

Utilizing Third-Party Tools

Although there is no official tool for post recovery, some third-party applications claim to recover deleted social media content. However, use caution and do thorough research, as their use raises privacy and security concerns.

Preventive Measures

Prevention is better than cure. Backing up your Facebook data regularly and using the Archive feature judiciously can help you avoid the regret of accidentally deleting valuable content.

The Role of Customer Support

In cases where you suspect that your content has been removed due to a glitch or unauthorized access, reaching out to Facebook Support may provide clarity or assistance. Although they usually can’t recover deleted posts, they can provide assistance with account security and related issues.

Conclusion

The digital sphere is fleeting, and our interactions on platforms like Facebook are more fragile than we imagine. Although recovering deleted Facebook posts is challenging and often not possible through official methods, understanding your options can provide some solace and a path forward. More importantly, this journey highlights the importance of digital responsibility and the need to take proactive steps to protect our online memories.

Also Read: TikTok Faces Intense Scrutiny and Possible Fines in the EU Over Child Safety

FAQs

  1. Can I recover a post deleted from Facebook after 30 days?

    • Once a post is deleted from Facebook, it is considered permanently deleted regardless of the time frame.

  2. Does Facebook keep copies of deleted posts?

    • Facebook’s policy states that deleted posts are removed from their servers and cannot be recovered.

  3. Can I use third-party apps to recover deleted Facebook posts?

    • While some apps claim to recover deleted content, their effectiveness is unverified, and they may pose security risks.

  4. What is the difference between archiving and deleting a post on Facebook?

    • Archiving a post hides it from your Timeline without removing it from Facebook, allowing future retrieval, while deleting a post permanently removes it.

  5. How often should I download my Facebook data for backups?

    • It depends on how often you post the content you want to keep. A regular schedule, such as monthly or quarterly, is recommended for active users.

How to Use Facebook Business Manager for Maximum Impact in 2024

How to Use Facebook Business Manager for Maximum Impact in 2024

Leave a Comment / Facebook, how to, Tech Tips, Tech tips / By

In the dynamic landscape of digital marketing, Meta’s Facebook Business Manager stands out as a vital tool for businesses aiming to streamline their online advertising efforts. As we move into 2024, effectively leveraging this platform can set your business apart, providing comprehensive control over your Facebook marketing and advertising activities. This guide will walk you through the essentials of using Facebook Business Manager, ensuring you’re well-equipped to optimize your online presence.

Introduction to Facebook Business Manager

How to Use Facebook Business Manager for Maximum Impact in 2024

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Facebook Business Manager is a free platform by Meta, designed to centralize control over your Facebook and Instagram properties, including Pages, ad accounts, audiences, pixels, and more. This is especially useful for managing multiple assets and team members under one roof, ensuring clarity and security in your digital marketing efforts.

Setting Up Your Account

  • Go to the Business Manager setup page: Start by visiting the Facebook Business Manager website and select the “Create Account” option.

  • Enter Your Business Details: rovide your business name, your first name, and your business email address to set up your account.

  • Add Your Facebook Business Page: If you have an existing page, you can add it to your Business Manager account. If not, you have the option to create a new one.

Main Features of Facebook Business Manager

Managing Assets

You can add and manage various assets like Posting, Pages, ad accounts, and Instagram accounts. This centralized approach makes it easy for your team to control access and permissions.

Adding People and Assigning Roles

Business Manager allows you to add team members and assign them specific roles, from administrative to limited access, increasing security and efficiency.

Insights and Analytics

Access detailed insights and analytics about your campaigns and overall performance, enabling data-driven decisions to optimize your strategies.

Also Read: Saudi’s Tabby Gets $700 Million Credit Line From JPMorgan

Creating and Managing Ad Campaigns

Planning Your Campaigns

Begin by identifying your marketing goals, such as increasing brand recognition, leads generation, or boosting sales. These objectives will shape the framework of your advertising campaigns.

Creating Ad Sets and Ads

For each campaign, create ad sets to target specific audiences with tailored ads. This segmentation improves campaign effectiveness.

Budgeting and Scheduling

Set your budget and schedule your ads. Facebook offers flexibility in budgeting, allowing daily or lifetime budgets and the ability to schedule ads for optimal times.

Utilizing Advanced Features

Pixel Integration

Integrate the Facebook pixel with your website to track conversions and retarget website visitors, increasing your ad accuracy.

Catalogs and Inventory Management

For e-commerce businesses, catalog access and managing inventory through Business Manager can streamline product advertising on Facebook.

Custom Audiences and Lookalike Audiences

Take advantage of custom audiences by targeting ads based on your existing contacts or website visitors. Lookalike audiences help you reach new users similar to your best customers.

Tips for Maximizing Your ROI

  • Best Practices for Ad Targeting: Use Facebook’s robust targeting options to reach your ideal audience based on demographics, interests, and behavior.

  • Creative Strategies for Advertising Content: Engage your audience with engaging advertising content that resonates with their interests and needs.

  • Analyzing and Optimizing Campaign Performance: Regularly review campaign analytics to understand what’s working and make adjustments for continuous improvement.

Conclusion

As we embrace advances in digital marketing in 2024, Meta’s Facebook Business Manager remains the cornerstone for businesses looking to tackle the complexities of online advertising. By mastering this tool, you can enhance your marketing strategies, get better results, and gain a competitive edge in the digital marketplace.