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Essex Police have closed their investigation into journalist Allison Pearson's social media post, which was alleged to incite racial hatred. The decision follows significant backlash regarding free speech and police priorities after officers visited Pearson's home on Remembrance Sunday. An independent review of the police's handling of the case will be conducted.
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As the influencer economy grows, many smaller creators feel sidelined by competition and rising costs. Platforms like TikTok and Bluesky are evolving, while micro-influencers struggle to maintain their relevance amid algorithm changes and market saturation. The industry is projected to reach $500 billion by 2027, but challenges persist.
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Bluesky, the decentralized social network, has surged to over 24 million users following controversial changes at X (formerly Twitter). CEO Jay Graber discusses potential revenue models, including user-driven advertising, while emphasizing user control and experience. The platform's growth reflects a shift in user preferences post-2024 U.S. elections.
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A recent study reveals that many teenagers in England and Wales are increasingly afraid to go out due to violent content on social media. Algorithms on platforms like TikTok and X are serving violent clips, contributing to anxiety and desensitization among youth. New laws are set to address this issue in 2025.
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Starbucks is grappling with payroll disruptions due to a ransomware attack on Blue Yonder, its supply chain software provider. The attack, which began on November 21, has forced Starbucks to manually track employee hours while ensuring customer service remains unaffected. Recovery efforts are ongoing, with no timeline for full restoration provided.
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AI startups like Insitro, Pathway, and Biolevate are reshaping drug development and medical writing. Insitro focuses on accelerating drug discovery, while Pathway enhances live AI systems. Biolevate aims to streamline medical documentation, addressing significant challenges in the pharmaceutical industry. These innovations could lead to faster, more efficient healthcare solutions.
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On November 27, 2024, Australia's Senate approved a bill banning children under 16 from social media platforms. The legislation aims to enhance child safety online, requiring platforms to implement age-verification measures. This move has garnered both political support and criticism from experts concerned about its effectiveness.
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On November 28, 2024, Australia passed a law prohibiting social media access for users under 16. The legislation, aimed at protecting children's mental health, imposes fines on platforms that fail to comply. The law has sparked debate over its implications for child safety and online freedom.
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Bluesky has announced an update to its impersonation policy, aiming for a more aggressive stance against impersonation and handle-squatting accounts. The company has expanded its moderation team to address a backlog of reports amid rapid user growth, while exploring new verification methods beyond domain verification.
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Meta reports minimal impact from AI-generated misinformation during major elections in 2024. The company claims that existing policies effectively mitigated risks, with AI-related misinformation constituting less than 1% of fact-checked content. Despite concerns, the use of AI in disinformation campaigns was limited, according to Meta's findings.
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Australia's parliament has approved a law banning social media access for minors under 16, aiming to protect youth from online harms. The law, effective in a year, holds platforms accountable for enforcing age restrictions, with fines for non-compliance. The move has sparked debate over its implications for free expression and enforcement challenges.
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Over a million users have left X (formerly Twitter) for Bluesky, a platform created by Twitter's co-founder Jack Dorsey. This shift reflects growing dissatisfaction with X under Elon Musk's ownership, marked by increased toxicity and reduced functionality. Bluesky is seen as a refuge for those seeking a healthier online community.
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California's Attorney General Rob Bonta has proposed legislation requiring warning labels on social media platforms to protect children from mental health risks. The bill has garnered bipartisan support but faces opposition from industry officials citing First Amendment concerns. This follows similar actions in Australia, which recently banned social media access for users under 16.