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Meta Faces Lawsuit from Polish Billionaire Alleging Fake Ad Scandal

Meta Faces Lawsuit from Polish Billionaire Alleging Fake Ad Scandal

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Polish billionaire Rafal Brzoska and his wife are preparing to take legal action against Meta Platforms, Inc. over fake advertisements circulating on Facebook and Instagram. These ads reportedly misuse Brzoska’s image and spread false information about his wife. The couple has expressed frustration over Meta’s handling of the situation, despite notifying the company in early July. This lawsuit, still in its planning stages, is part of a broader global trend where high-profile individuals seek to hold social media giants accountable for the content they allow on their platforms.

A Growing Legal Battle

Meta Faces Lawsuit from Polish Billionaire Alleging Fake Ad Scandal

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Brzoska, who is well-known as the creator of the Polish parcel locker company InPost, has taken a public stand against the fake advertisements featuring his likeness. These ads, which have been linked to various scams, continue to appear on Meta’s platforms despite his complaints. “We plan to file a private lawsuit against Meta,” Brzoska told Reuters, highlighting his dissatisfaction with the company’s response.

However, the billionaire and his legal team have not yet determined the jurisdiction in which they will file the lawsuit. They are considering multiple scenarios, including legal action in the United States if they find European jurisdictions to be unresponsive. This potential lawsuit could join a series of legal challenges globally that aim to curb the spread of fraudulent content on social media platforms. Brzoska’s case could become a significant example of individuals taking on tech giants in court, especially if it proceeds in multiple countries.

Meta’s Response and the Broader Implications

A spokesperson for Meta acknowledged the issue, stating that the company removes false advertisements once it becomes aware of them and works with local authorities to combat scammers. However, the persistence of these ads raises questions about the effectiveness of Meta’s measures to protect users from misleading content. Brzoska’s case underscores the ongoing struggle between individuals and large tech companies over content moderation and accountability.

Also Read: X Faces Austrian Complaint Over Data Usage for AI Training

As Brzoska and his wife deliberate their legal strategy, their actions may inspire others facing similar issues to seek justice. The outcome of this potential lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for how social media platforms manage and respond to reports of fake advertisements, especially when they involve high-profile figures. For Meta, this is yet another reminder of the growing pressure it faces from global users and regulators to tighten its control over the content that appears on its platforms.

X Faces Austrian Complaint Over Data Usage for AI Training

X Faces Austrian Complaint Over Data Usage for AI Training

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An important complaint against social media network X, formerly known as Twitter, was submitted on Monday by the Austrian advocacy group NOYB (None of Your Business). The corporation, which is owned by Elon Musk, is accused of violating the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) of the European Union by improperly exploiting customers’ personal data to train its artificial intelligence (AI) systems without getting the required authorization.

The GDPR Grievance and Its Consequences

X Faces Austrian Complaint Over Data Usage for AI Training

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Max Schrems, a well-known privacy campaigner, led the complaint that was filed with data protection authorities across nine EU nations. This action is a component of a larger plan to put further pressure on Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DPC), which serves as the principal regulator for numerous significant American technology companies doing business in Europe because Ireland is home to their European headquarters. The main point of NOYB’s complaint is that X has been processing user data for AI training without providing users with an opportunity to opt out beforehand, which is a clear violation of GDPR regulations.

Ireland's Part in the Protracted Legal Battle

In order to rectify the situation, the Irish Data Protection Commission, which is leading the way in regulating these matters, has taken action. It has requested an injunction prohibiting X from utilizing user data for AI research until appropriate consent procedures are put in place. X consented to temporarily stop using personal data for AI training in response to the complaint. However, NOYB contends that rather than addressing the basic legality of the data processing itself, the DPC’s measures are more focused on mitigation.

The Position of Max Schrems and Legal Issues

Max Schrems, a prominent proponent of digital age privacy rights, voiced his worries regarding X’s operations. He said,

"We want to ensure that Twitter fully complies with EU law, which, at a bare minimum, requires to ask users for consent in this case."

money.usnews.com

The case brought to light that X had not notified users of their right to object to data collecting until many weeks after the process had commenced, giving rise to further ethical and legal concerns. 

Analogous to Meta's AI Approach

This is not a unique instance. Similar problems arose for Facebook’s parent firm Meta in June when the Irish DPC asked for a postponement of the AI assistant’s European launch citing privacy concerns. Additionally, NOYB has filed complaints against Meta, highlighting the wider ramifications for IT businesses that use user data for AI training without the express consent of the user.

Also Read: MiddleGame Ventures Hits €55M Milestone Towards €150M Fintech Fund

Final Thoughts: X's Future and EU Data Privacy

As the matter develops, X’s adherence to EU data protection regulations is still being investigated. The resolution of this case may establish a standard for how tech companies function in Europe, especially in relation to the use of private information for artificial intelligence research.

Swiss-Based Schlatter Faces IT Network Disruption After Cyberattack

Swiss-Based Schlatter Faces IT Network Disruption After Cyberattack

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Swiss engineering firm Schlatter Industries announced on Monday that its IT network had been compromised by a cyberattack on Friday. The company, based in Switzerland, confirmed that the attack involved sophisticated malware, indicating it was likely executed by professional cybercriminals. The attackers attempted to extort the company, although Schlatter refrained from providing additional details on the nature or extent of the blackmail attempts.

Swiss-Based Schlatter Faces IT Network Disruption After Cyberattack

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The breach has prompted Schlatter to initiate an in-depth investigation to determine if any sensitive data was stolen during the incident. The company’s cybersecurity experts are currently working to restore all affected systems to full operational status. The incident marks a significant security challenge for Schlatter, a company known for its advanced engineering solutions, as it strives to safeguard its operations and data integrity.

Immediate Security Response and Authorities Involved

In response to the attack, Schlatter Industries took immediate action to secure its network. The company swiftly implemented a series of security measures designed to contain the breach and prevent further unauthorized access. Schlatter has also engaged with relevant authorities to assist in the investigation and to mitigate the impact of the attack.

While the company did not disclose specific details about the security measures or the nature of the malware used, the prompt involvement of authorities suggests a high level of concern regarding the potential risks posed by the cyberattack. Schlatter’s decision to work closely with cybersecurity experts and law enforcement underscores the seriousness of the situation and the importance of protecting its assets and reputation.

Ongoing Investigation and Restoration Efforts

As Schlatter Industries continues to assess the damage, the company’s primary focus remains on determining whether any data was compromised and ensuring that its IT systems are fully restored. The company has not yet confirmed the extent of the disruption or how long it will take to bring all systems back online. 

Also Read: SoftBank Unveils $3.4 Billion Share Buyback in Search for AI Deals

Schlatter Industries’ proactive approach to managing the fallout from the attack highlights the growing importance of cybersecurity in today’s business environment. As cyber threats continue to evolve, companies like Schlatter are increasingly finding themselves on the front lines of a digital battle to protect their operations and customer data. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential vulnerabilities that even well-established firms face in an increasingly interconnected world.

HPE’s $14 Billion Juniper Deal Wins UK Antitrust Approval

HPE’s $14 Billion Juniper Deal Wins UK Antitrust Approval

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The fourteen billion-dollar takeover of Juniper Networks by Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) is close to completion after being approved by the United Kingdom’s Competition and Markets Authority (known as CMA). The Competition and Markets Authority concluded that the combination will not materially reduce competitiveness in the United Kingdom market following a thorough review.

US Assessment and EU Approval

Following the European Union last week, when regulators in the markets they examined discovered no indication of competition problems, the UK has now given its permission. Meanwhile, the US Justice Department has frequently requested more specific details while it continues to analyze the agreement. A calculated purchase to improve network capabilities

HPE’s $14 Billion Juniper Deal Wins UK Antitrust Approval

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Juniper Networks, known for its switches, routers and other networking equipment, competes with market leader Cisco Systems Inc. HPE said it would pay $40 per share in cash to acquire Juniper and expand its networking business. This tactical decision that meets the need for increasing hybrid cloud services and reliable end-to-end artificial intelligence solutions should stimulate the position of Hewlett Packard Enterprise in the artificial intelligence networking industry.

Future of Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Hewlett Packard Enterprise emphasizes how important the acquisition is to maintain the latest portfolio in the latest development. According to the company, AI will remain one of the most disruptive workloads, and networking will be key to meeting these expectations.

Integrity and Leadership

Once the transaction closes, Juniper CEO Rami Rahim will lead HPE’s combined networking division, reporting directly to HPE Chairman and CEO Antonio Neri. Subject to remaining regulatory approvals, the deal, first announced in January, is expected to close by the end of 2024 or early 2025.

Also Read: SoftBank Unveils $3.4 Billion Share Buyback in Search for AI Deals

Conclusion

Despite the UK and EU approvals, the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) remains the main regulatory hurdle. HPE’s acquisition of Juniper Networks is expected to close on schedule, barring any last-minute interventions. For HPE, the deal is a major step forward. This tactical decision that meets the need for increasing hybrid cloud services and reliable end-to-end artificial intelligence solutions should stimulate the position of Hewlett Packard Enterprise in the artificial intelligence networking industry.

SoftBank Unveils $3.4 Billion Share Buyback in Search for AI Deals

SoftBank Unveils $3.4 Billion Share Buyback in Search for AI Deals

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SoftBank Group Corp., under the leadership of its enigmatic founder and CEO, Masayoshi Son, has announced a significant share buyback program worth up to ¥500 billion ($3.4 billion). This move comes at a critical juncture as the Tokyo-based tech giant prepares to ramp up investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductor technologies. The buyback, which will extend through August 7 of next year, aims to repurchase up to 6.8% of the company’s free-floating shares, demonstrating SoftBank’s commitment to bolstering its share price while keeping a robust cash reserve for future strategic investments.

SoftBank Unveils $3.4 Billion Share Buyback in Search for AI Deals

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The announcement follows the increased stake of activist investor Elliott Investment Management in SoftBank earlier this year, which was accompanied by a push for a more substantial $15 billion buyback. Despite this, SoftBank’s Chief Financial Officer Yoshimitsu Goto emphasized that Elliott’s influence had no bearing on the company’s decision, framing the move as a natural evolution of SoftBank’s financial strategy.

AI and Semiconductors: The New Frontier

Masayoshi Son has long been known for his visionary approach to technology investment, and the current buyback signals SoftBank’s readiness to dive deeper into AI and semiconductor sectors. The value of SoftBank’s assets, excluding debt, has surged in tandem with the rising share price of its chip affiliate Arm Holdings Plc. Goto pointed out that SoftBank’s net asset value has skyrocketed to ¥35.3 trillion, with its loan-to-asset value plummeting to a mere 7.8%, well below its historical target of 25%. This financial strength positions SoftBank to aggressively pursue new opportunities in AI chips, data centers, and robotics—areas that Goto says will be central to SoftBank’s future growth.

The timing of this buyback is also noteworthy, given the company’s volatile stock performance in recent days. After suffering its largest drop since 1998 on Monday, SoftBank’s stock partially recovered on Tuesday and Wednesday. However, its market value remains down more than $40 billion from the peak it reached in July. 

Also Read: Meta Apologizes to Malaysian PM for Social Media Post Removal

Analysts, such as Kirk Boodry from Astris Advisory, suggest that while the ¥500 billion buyback might seem modest compared to past programs, it should generate some excitement among investors. This buyback, combined with an anticipated accelerated AI investment strategy, underscores Son’s unwavering focus on realizing what he describes as “artificial super-intelligence” while maintaining a solid financial foundation for SoftBank’s ambitious future.

Meta Apologizes to Malaysian PM for Social Media Post Removal

Meta Apologizes to Malaysian PM for Social Media Post Removal

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Meta Platforms Inc. issued an apology for the removal of several social media posts by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim that paid tribute to a recently assassinated Hamas leader. The apology, issued on Tuesday, followed a wave of criticism and highlighted the sensitive nature of international politics and social media regulation.

Operational Error Leads to Content Removal

Meta Apologizes to Malaysian PM for Social Media Post Removal

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In its statement, Meta described the incident as an “operational error.” The company explained, “We apologize for an operational error where content from the prime minister’s Facebook and Instagram Pages were removed, and the content has since been restored with the correct newsworthy label.” The posts in question condemned the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, a top leader of Hamas, a Palestinian militant organization. 

Haniyeh, who was killed last month, was a prominent figure within Hamas, an organization considered a terrorist group by several countries, including the United States. However, Malaysia does not recognize Israel as a sovereign state and has no diplomatic ties with it, reflecting its longstanding support for Palestinian causes.

Diplomatic Tensions and Social Media Sensitivities

The removal of Prime Minister Ibrahim’s posts came against the backdrop of Malaysia’s staunch support for Palestine. In May, Mr. Ibrahim met with a Hamas delegation led by Haniyeh during a visit to Qatar, signaling Malaysia’s support for the group. This meeting underscored Malaysia’s position in the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.

The incident also drew attention to another related event: the suspension of a Facebook Live broadcast from Malaysian national broadcaster RTM’s news account. The broadcast covered a rally in support of Palestinians on August 4, and its suspension prompted further outrage from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). The PMO expressed regret over the disruption, which they viewed as an unnecessary intervention in Malaysia’s domestic affairs.

Meta’s apology aims to mitigate the diplomatic fallout and address concerns about its content moderation practices. The restoration of the posts with the newsworthy label signifies an acknowledgment of the political sensitivity surrounding the issue. 

Also Read: SK Hynix to Build AI Chip Facility with $950 Million in US Grants

The incident highlights the intricate balance social media companies must maintain between enforcing content policies and respecting the diverse political views and sentiments of users globally. As social media continues to play a crucial role in international diplomacy and public discourse, incidents like this emphasize the need for clear and consistent moderation policies that consider the complexities of global geopolitics.