US Presidential AI Order and ICMR Data Breach
Introduction
US President Biden takes a step by signing a key executive order to manage the risks posed by AI. The new presidential order on Artificial intelligence (AI) sets rules on the rapidly growing technology that has big potential but also covers risks. The presidential order was signed on 30th October 2023. It is a strong action that the US president has taken on AI safety and security. This order will require the developers to work on the most powerful AI model to share their safety test results with the government before releasing their product to the public. It also includes developing standards for ethically using AI and for detecting AI-generated content and labelling it as such. Tackling the many dangers of AI as it rapidly advances, the technology poses certain risks by replacing human workers, spreading misinformation and stealing people's data. The white house is also making clear that this is not just America’s problem and that the US needs to work with the world to set standards here and to ensure the responsible use of AI. The white house is also urging Congress to do more and pass comprehensive privacy legislation. The order includes new safety guidelines for AI developers, standards to disclose AI-generated content and requirements for federal agencies that are utilising AI. The white house says that it is the strongest action that any government has taken on AI safety and security. In the most recent events, India has reported the biggest ever data breach, where data of 815 million Indians has been leaked. ICMR is the Indian Council of Medical Research and is the imperial medical research institution of India.
Key highlights of the presidential order
The presidential order requires developers to share safety test results. It focuses on developing standards, tools & tests to ensure safe AI. It will ensure protection from AI-enabled frauds and protect Americans' privacy, advance equity and civil rights, stand up for consumers and workers, promote innovation and competition, protect against risks of using AI to engineer dangerous material and provide guidelines for detecting AI -AI-generated content and establishing overall standards for AI safety and security.
Online content authentication and labelling
Biden administration has asked the Department of Commerce to set guidelines to help authenticate content coming from the government, meaning the American people should be able to trust official documents coming from the government. So, focusing on content authentication, they have also talked about labelling AI-generated content, making the differentiation between a real authentic piece of content and something that has been manipulated or generated using AI.
ICMR Breach
On 31/10/2023, an American intelligence and cybersecurity agency flagged the biggest-ever data breach, putting the data of 81.5 crore Indians at stake and at at potential risk of making its way to the dark market. The cyber agency has informed that a ‘threat actor’, also known as ‘pwn001’ shared a thread on Breach Forums, which is essentially claimed as the ‘premier Databreach discussion and leaks forum’. The forum confirms a breach of 81.5 crore Indians. As of today,, ICRM has not issued any official statement, but it has informed the government that the prestigious Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) will be taking on the investigation and apprehending the cybercriminals behind the cyber attack. The bad actor’s alias, 'pwn001,' made a post on X (formerly Twitter); the post informed that Aadhaar and passport information, along with personal data such as names, phone numbers, and addresses. It is claimed that the data was extracted from the COVID-19 test details of citizens registered with ICMR. This poses a serious threat to the Indian Netizen from any form of cybercrime from anywhere in the world.
Conclusion:
The US presidential order on AI is a move towards making Artificial intelligence safe and secure. This is a major step by the Biden administration, which is going to protect both Americans and the world from the considerable dangers of AI. The presidential order requires developing standards, tools, and tests to ensure AI safety. The US administration will work with allies and global partners, including India, to develop a strong international framework to govern the development and use of AI. It will ensure the responsible use of AI. With the passing of legislation such as the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, it is pertinent that the Indian government works towards creating precautionary and preventive measures to protect Indian data. As the evolution of cyber laws is coming along, we need to keep an eye on emerging technologies and update/amend our digital routines and hygienes to stay safe and secure.
References:
- https://m.dailyhunt.in/news/india/english/lokmattimes+english-epaper-lokmaten/biden+signs+landmark+executive+order+to+manage+ai+risks-newsid-n551950866?sm=Y
- https://www.hindustantimes.com/technology/in-indias-biggest-data-breach-personal-information-of-81-5-crore-people-leaked-101698719306335-amp.html?utm_campaign=fullarticle&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=inshorts
Related Blogs

AI-generated content has been taking up space in the ever-changing dynamics of today's tech landscape. Generative AI has emerged as a powerful tool that has enabled the creation of hyper-realistic audio, video, and images. While advantageous, this ability has some downsides, too, particularly in content authenticity and manipulation.
The impact of this content is varied in the areas of ethical, psychological and social harms seen in the past couple of years. A major concern is the creation of non-consensual explicit content, including nudes. This content includes content where an individual’s face gets superimposed onto explicit images or videos without their consent. This is not just a violation of privacy for individuals, and can have humongous consequences for their professional and personal lives. This blog examines the existing laws and whether they are equipped to deal with the challenges that this content poses.
Understanding the Deepfake Technology
Deepfake technology is a media file (image, video, or speech) that typically represents a human subject that is altered deceptively using deep neural networks (DNNs). It is used to alter a person’s identity, and it usually takes the form of a “face swap” where the identity of a source subject is transferred onto a destination subject. The destination’s facial expressions and head movements remain the same, but the appearance in the video is that of the source. In the case of videos, the identities can be substituted by way of replacement or reenactment.
This superimposed content creates realistic content, such as fake nudes. Presently, creating a deepfake is not a costly endeavour. It requires a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), software that is free, open-source, and easy to download, and graphics editing and audio-dubbing skills. Some of the common apps to create deepfakes are DeepFaceLab and FaceSwap, which are both public and open source and are supported by thousands of users who actively participate in the evolution and development of these software and models.
Legal Gaps and Challenges
Multiple gaps and challenges exist in the legal space for deepfakes and their regulation. They are:
- The inadequate definitions governing AI-generated explicit content often lead to enforcement challenges.
- Jurisdictional challenges due to the cross-border nature of crimes and the difficulties caused by international cooperation measures are in the early stages for AI content.
- There is a gap between the current consent-based and harassment laws for AI-generated nudes.
- Providing evidence or providing proof for the intent and identification of perpetrators in digital crimes is a challenge that is yet to be overcome.
Policy Responses and Global Trends
Presently, the global response to deepfakes is developing. The UK has developed the Online Safety Bill, the EU has the AI Act, the US has some federal laws such as the National AI Initiative Act of 2020 and India is currently developing the India AI Act as the specific legislation dealing with AI and its correlating issues.
The IT Rules, 2021, and the DPDP Act, 2023, regulate digital platforms by mandating content governance, privacy policies, grievance redressal, and compliance with removal orders. Emphasising intermediary liability and safe harbour protections, these laws play a crucial role in tackling harmful content like AI-generated nudes, while the DPDP Act focuses on safeguarding privacy and personal data rights.
Bridging the Gap: CyberPeace Recommendations
- Initiate legislative reforms by advocating for clear and precise definitions for the consent frameworks and instituting high penalties for AI-based offences, particularly those which are aimed at sexually explicit material.
- Advocate for global cooperation and collaborations by setting up international standards and bilateral and multilateral treaties that address the cross-border nature of these offences.
- Platforms should push for accountability by pushing for stricter platform responsibility for the detection and removal of harmful AI-generated content. Platforms should introduce strong screening mechanisms to counter the huge influx of harmful content.
- Public campaigns which spread awareness and educate users about their rights and the resources available to them in case such an act takes place with them.
Conclusion
The rapid advancement of AI-generated explicit content demands immediate and decisive action. As this technology evolves, the gaps in existing legal frameworks become increasingly apparent, leaving individuals vulnerable to profound privacy violations and societal harm. Addressing this challenge requires adaptive, forward-thinking legislation that prioritises individual safety while fostering technological progress. Collaborative policymaking is essential and requires uniting governments, tech platforms, and civil society to develop globally harmonised standards. By striking a balance between innovation and societal well-being, we can ensure that the digital age is not only transformative but also secure and respectful of human dignity. Let’s act now to create a safer future!
References
- https://etedge-insights.com/technology/artificial-intelligence/deepfakes-and-the-future-of-digital-security-are-we-ready/
- https://odsc.medium.com/the-rise-of-deepfakes-understanding-the-challenges-and-opportunities-7724efb0d981
- https://insights.sei.cmu.edu/blog/how-easy-is-it-to-make-and-detect-a-deepfake/

Technology has revolutionized our lives, offering countless benefits and conveniences that make our daily lives more accessible and connected. However, with these benefits come potential challenges and risks that can impact our digital experiences. In this article, we have gathered expert advice on the impact of technology use in our daily lives, including the importance of warranties and tech protection in safeguarding our technology investments. Our experts offer invaluable insights and guidance on using technology safely and effectively while protecting us from unexpected costs or problems. Whether you’re a casual user or a technology enthusiast, our experts’ insights will help you navigate the world of technology with confidence and peace of mind.
How to protect kids from online abuse in the modern era of technology?
“As parents, it’s important to acknowledge that online child abuse is a widespread problem that we need to address. But does this mean we should ban technology from our children’s lives? Absolutely not! Technology is an integral part of our children’s lives, providing numerous benefits. Instead, we should think of practical ways to minimize the risks of online abuse. Many parents today depend on parental control apps like Mobicip to safeguard their children’s online activities and build healthy digital habits. These apps allow parents to supervise their child’s online behavior, restrict screen time, prevent access to certain websites and applications, filter inappropriate content, and get instant notifications about dangerous interactions or inappropriate content. Parents feel reassured and free of worry, knowing that their children’s online surroundings are secure and protected. In addition to using a parental control app, we must also focus on building a strong connection with our kids. By initiating conversations about their digital lives, we can understand their digital world, educate them about the potential risks and dangers of the internet, and teach them how to stay safe. By being proactive and engaged in our children’s digital lives, we can protect them from online abuse while still allowing them to benefit from technology.”
How to increase engagement in online classes via technology?
“Online classes have gained immense popularity in recent years due to their many advantages. However, online educators face several challenges that can impede the effectiveness of their classes, one of which is the lack of engagement from students. To address this challenge, it is crucial to adopt certain strategies that can increase student engagement and create a more meaningful learning environment.
One effective strategy is to limit the number of chokepoints that students may face while enrolling in a class. This can be achieved by using booking and scheduling technology that provides students with a hassle-free experience. The system sends regular reminders and notifications to learners about upcoming classes and assignments, helping them stay organized and committed to their learning.
Technology plays a vital role in improving communication between students and teachers and in increasing student engagement and participation during a session. Utilizing technology such as polling, chat boxes, and breakout rooms enables learners to actively participate in the class and share their perspectives, leading to more effective learning.
Personalization is also essential in creating a meaningful learning environment. A scheduling system can help create customized learning paths for each student, where they can progress at their own pace and focus on topics that interest them. This ensures that each student receives individual attention and is able to learn in a way that suits their learning style.
Moreover, gamification techniques can be used to make the learning process more fun and engaging. This includes using badges, points, and leaderboards to motivate learners to achieve their goals while competing with each other.”
Dr. Sukanya Kakoty, Omnify
How to choose the best due diligence software for your business?
“With a variety of solutions on the market, finding the best due diligence software for your business can be a tedious task. In addition to the software’s capabilities meeting your needs, there are other factors to consider when picking the right solution for your business. As due diligence involves the sharing of sensitive information, security is a key factor to consider. When browsing solutions, it is important to consider if their security features are up to industry standards. User-friendliness is another factor to consider when adopting a new due diligence software. Introducing a new tool should increase team efficiency, not disrupt your existing workflow. When searching for the perfect due diligence solution, pick one that meets the above criteria and more. DealRoom is a lifecycle deal management solution, providing pipeline, diligence, integration, and document management all under one platform. DealRoom’s user-friendly and intuitive features allow for customizable workflows to fit the specific needs of each user. DealRoom also offers industry-leading security features, including data encryption, granular permissions, and detailed audit logs, guaranteeing that your information is always protected. When choosing the best due diligence software for your business, consider a user-friendly, flexible, and secure solution.”
Why are backups important, and what is the safest way of doing them?
“Backups are important for several reasons. They help to protect against data loss, which can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as hardware failure, software corruption, natural disasters, or cyber-attacks. Backups also help to ensure that important data is available when needed, such as in the case of an emergency or system failure. Additionally, backups provide a way to recover deleted or corrupted files. This is also important because the loss of data can result in consequences such as financial loss, damage to reputation, and even legal issues. If not these, then loss of data may also lead to emotional effects in certain cases. A backup, however, can restore data quickly and avoid any significant disruption, emotional or otherwise. The safest way of doing backups is by following the 3-2-1 backup rule. This rule states that you should have at least three copies of your data, stored on at least two different storage media, with one copy stored offsite. This provides redundancy in case of a failure of one storage medium or location.
There are several methods of backing up data, including:
- External hard drives or USB drives: These are inexpensive and portable, making them a popular choice for personal backups. However, they can be lost or damaged, so it is important to keep them in a safe location and make regular backups.
- Cloud backups: These store data on remote servers, which can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. This provides an offsite backup solution, but it is important to choose a reputable provider and to ensure that the data is encrypted and secure.
- Network-attached storage (NAS): These are devices that connect to a network and provide centralized storage for multiple devices. They can be configured to automatically back up data from multiple devices on the network.
- Tape backups: These are less common but are still used by some businesses for the long-term storage of large amounts of data.
Regardless of the backup method chosen, it is important to regularly test backups regularly to ensure that they can be successfully restored in case of an emergency.”
What are the best trending electric toys for kids in 2023?
“Augmented Reality (AR) Toys: These toys blend the physical and digital world, providing an immersive experience. Popular examples include AR-enabled building sets and interactive storybooks that come to life through an app.
Educational Robotics: Robotics toys like the LEGO Mindstorms Robot Inventor and Sphero’s programmable robots have gained popularity for teaching coding, engineering, and problem-solving skills through hands-on play.”
Aside from security, what are some of the features of a VPN?
“Accessing geo-restricted content: One of the main benefits of using a VPN is its ability to bypass geographical restrictions in the world of flight prices, content, gaming, and more. Many websites and online services are only available in certain countries or regions. With a VPN, you can change your virtual location and access content that is otherwise blocked or unavailable in your country. Imagine you’re playing a game with friends; by using a VPN, you can improve your gaming experience by connecting to a server closer to the game’s host location and bypassing regional restrictions to access features unavailable in your region.
Increased privacy and anonymity: While security and privacy go hand in hand, VPNs offer more than just encryption. They also provide a level of anonymity by masking your IP address and making it difficult for websites and online services to track your online activity. This can be particularly useful for users who are concerned about their online privacy or who want to avoid targeted ads.
Faster internet speeds: Believe it or not, using a VPN can actually improve your internet speed in certain situations. If your internet service provider (ISP) is throttling your internet speed, a VPN can help you bypass this by encrypting your traffic and hiding it from your ISP. Additionally, some VPN providers offer dedicated servers that are optimized for faster speeds, reducing buffering and improving download and upload speeds.”
How does creating a website can help a home business?
“As a digital marketing consultant, I once worked with a client who had a home-based bakery business. She struggled to reach new customers beyond her local community and wanted to expand her reach and grow her business. After assessing her needs, I recommended that she create a website for her business. With the website, she could showcase her unique baked goods, provide a platform for online ordering, and expand her reach to customers beyond her local community. The website was designed to be visually appealing and user-friendly while effectively showcasing the brand and products in an attractive way. Additionally, the website was optimized for search engines and integrated with social media platforms to increase visibility and drive traffic to the site. Within a few months of launching the website, she saw an increase in orders. Customers could easily place orders through the website and leave reviews, which provided social proof and helped build trust with potential customers. Also used data analytics to track customer behavior and make data-driven decisions to improve the website and marketing strategy. The website became a valuable asset for her business, helping her to expand her reach, increase sales, and gather valuable customer data. Overall, creating a website helped her home-based business to grow and thrive in a competitive marketplace.”
Lito James, MassivePeak.com
How can technology be utilized to enhance productivity for remote teams working from home?
“Our team facilitates strategic planning sessions and we’re frequently working with teams that are working remotely. Here are a few of our best tips for productivity:
- Clear strategy: As teams have fewer touch points, it’s critical they are aligned and bought into the direction of the organization.
- Clear big rocks for the week. Make sure you’re not just busy but doing things that will move the needle on your strategic goals
- Clear accountability: Basecamp or other project management tools to help make sure nothing falls through the cracks
- Clear communication: Schedule the right meetings, so you are connecting at the right times to deliver important work and align on important topics.
- Clear agendas: When you do meet, make sure you’re coming together, staying focused, and getting the most important information across
Creating the right strategy and the right structure to keep it moving forward will help your team drive your most important outcomes, regardless of if you’re working in an office or remotely.
Anthony Taylor, SME Strategy Consulting
How to monitor your kids’ activities online?
“As a father of two kids and the founder of TheSweetBits.com, a website dedicated to providing guides on software and apps, I have extensive experience in monitoring my children’s online activities. Over the years, I have tested and reviewed numerous parental control apps and software to ensure my children’s online safety. When it comes to monitoring your kids’ activity online, it’s crucial to find a balance between keeping them safe and respecting their privacy. One of the most effective ways to achieve this balance is by using parental control software that allows you to set limits on their device usage, restrict access to inappropriate content, and monitor their online activity. However, it’s important to note that parental control software is not a substitute for good communication with your kids. You should have regular conversations with them about online safety and the potential dangers of the internet. By establishing trust and open communication, you can work together to create a safe and responsible online environment for your family. As I always say, ‘Parental control software is just one tool in the toolbox of responsible parenting’.”
How to plan the best online date with the help of technology?
“To plan a date online with the help of technology, we recommend using a reservation app like OpenTable to make dinner reservations. Not only will this let her know you thought ahead with the smaller details, but it will also ensure a smooth date by eliminating a long waiting time for a table to open up.”
What are the benefits of teaching kids to code and how to make it fun?
“The ability to code has become increasingly important in the modern world due to the rapid advancement of technology and its integration into nearly every aspect of our lives. This is something that will only continue as our children grow up and enter the world at large as the demand for workers with coding skills continues to grow rapidly. Teaching kids to code offers numerous benefits beyond just developing technical skills and getting them future-ready. It promotes problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and logical reasoning, all of which are essential in today’s digital age. Additionally, coding can increase creativity and encourage children to think outside the box. However, it’s important to make coding fun and engaging for kids rather than a dull and tedious task. One way to make it exciting is to introduce gamification elements, such as incorporating fun characters or adding game-like challenges, and there are loads of great apps to get them started with. We love CodeSpark Academy, Lego Boost, and Tynker. Another approach is to encourage group work or peer learning, where children can work together to solve problems and learn from each other. Ultimately, making coding fun and enjoyable can ignite children’s interest in technology and set them on a path to explore new and exciting opportunities in the future.”
Are dating apps useful in the modern dating era and how to find the correct one?
“Dating apps have become a popular tool for modern daters to find potential partners. However, they also come with their own set of problems. One of the biggest issues with current dating apps is that they focus too much on superficial factors such as sexual attraction, rather than deeper compatibility and true attraction. This can lead to frustration and disappointment for users who are seeking more meaningful connections. Fortunately, AI technology is starting to offer solutions to these problems. By using machine learning algorithms and data analysis, apps like Iris Dating are able to help users find potential matches based on more than just superficial qualities. Iris uses a process called “iris training” to learn each user’s unique preferences and suggest compatible matches accordingly. This approach allows users to connect with people to whom they are really attracted, leading to more meaningful and lasting relationships. When it comes to finding the right dating app, it’s important to do your research and choose one that aligns with your values and preferences. Look for apps that prioritize true attraction and use AI technology to help you find meaningful matches. Don’t be afraid to try out multiple apps until you find one that feels right for you. Overall, while dating apps have their flaws, AI-powered apps like Iris offer hope for a more personalized and meaningful dating experience. By leveraging the power of technology, we can make the search for love a little bit easier and a lot more enjoyable.”
What are some IT risk management tips for home businesses?
“As more and more people turn to home-based businesses, IT security for these operations is becoming an increasingly important concern. From data breaches to cyberattacks, the risks you face as a home business owner are the same as those faced by larger enterprises. So, what are some IT risk management tips for home businesses? First, consider using a virtual private network or VPN to enhance the security of your online communications. Additionally, enable two-factor authentication for all of your accounts, including any cloud services you use. Practice good password hygiene, regularly updating passwords and avoiding easily guessable or common passwords. Finally, consider investing in cybersecurity insurance to protect your business in the event of a cyberattack or data breach. By taking these steps to mitigate IT risks, you can help ensure your home business stays secure and successful. Below are some additional suggestions to help you stay vigilant and set up your home business for longevity.
-Keep Your Software Up to Date: One of the best ways to reduce your risk of being hacked is to keep your software up to date. This includes both your operating system and any applications you have installed.
-Use a Firewall: A firewall is a piece of software that helps to block incoming connections from untrusted sources. By blocking these connections, you can help to prevent hackers from gaining access to your system.
-Use Anti-Virus Software: In addition to using a firewall, you should also use anti-virus software. Anti-virus software helps to protect your system from viruses and other malware. These programs work by scanning your system for known threats and then quarantining or deleting any files that are found to be infected.
-Back Up Your Data Regularly: Finally, it is important to back up your data regularly. This way, if your system is ever compromised, you will not lose any important files or data.
-Encrypt Your Data: If you are storing sensitive data on your computer, it is important to encrypt it to protect it from being accessed by unauthorized individuals. Encryption is a process of transforming data into a format that cannot be read without a decryption key. There are many different encryption algorithms that you can use, so make sure to choose one that is appropriate for the type of data you are encrypting.”
What are the benefits of giving your child a smartphone?
“If you’re teetering back and forth on getting your child a smartphone, consider these benefits as you make your decision:
• Connection. Smartphones keep kids in contact with friends and family—for fun and function! From school to extracurricular activities, kids can easily let their parents and caregivers know about late pickups, ride requests, and other changes of plans.
• Safety. If your child or someone they’re with gets hurt, their smartphone could save a life! And with built-in GPS, their location is always accessible. Plus, parental controls and other smartphone safeguards offer even more protection.
• Convenience. Life is a little easier when your child has a smartphone, plain and simple! You can call each other, send texts, and always know where they are.
• Acceptance. These days, it’s uncommon for kids to not have smartphones. With a smartphone, your child feels belonging and inclusion among their peers.
• Development. Having something as valuable as a smartphone teaches children responsibility and accountability. And with a smartphone of their own, your child will learn how to use technology in an appropriate, safe, and disciplined way.
• Education. Smartphones are incredible teaching tools! Educational apps, videos, and games can keep kids sharp. Plus, smartphones can introduce them to new hobbies and interests!”
How is technology promoting health and wellness?
“Technology has revolutionized the healthcare industry and is playing an increasingly important role in promoting health and wellness. Here are some ways in which technology has helped:
Wearable technology: Wearable devices, such as fitness trackers and smartwatches, are becoming increasingly popular. These devices can track a person’s physical activity, sleep patterns, heart rate, and more. They provide valuable insights into a person’s health and wellness and can help motivate them to make positive lifestyle changes.
Telehealth: Telemedicine allows patients to receive medical care remotely through video conferencing, phone calls, or other digital means. It has also allowed fitness professionals to work with more people who aren’t in a local market via video conferencing, webinars, etc.
Mobile Apps: There are a plethora of mobile apps available that promote health and wellness. These apps can help users track their diet and exercise, manage chronic conditions, and access medical information.
Virtual Reality: Virtual reality (VR) is being used in healthcare to treat conditions such as anxiety, phobias, and PTSD. VR can also be used for physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Overall, technology is playing an increasingly important role in promoting health and wellness, and it is likely that we will see even more innovative uses of technology in the healthcare industry in the future.”

Introduction
Beginning with the premise that the advent of the internet has woven a rich but daunting digital web, intertwining the very fabric of technology with the variegated hues of human interaction, the EU has stepped in as the custodian of this ever-evolving tableau. It is within this sprawling network—a veritable digital Minotaur's labyrinth—that the European Union has launched a vigilant quest, seeking not merely to chart its enigmatic corridors but to instil a sense of order in its inherent chaos.
The Digital Services Act (DSA) is the EU's latest testament to this determined pilgrimage, a voyage to assert dominion over the nebulous realms of cyberspace. In its latest sagacious move, the EU has levelled its regulatory lance at the behemoths of digital indulgence—Pornhub, XVideos, and Stripchat—monarchs in the realm of adult entertainment, each commanding millions of devoted followers.
Applicability of DSA
Graced with the moniker of Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs), these titans of titillation are now facing the complex weave of duties delineated by the DSA, a legislative leviathan whose coils envelop the shadowy expanses of the internet with an aim to safeguard its citizens from the snares and pitfalls ensconced within. Like a vigilant Minotaur, the European Commission, the EU's executive arm, stands steadfast, enforcing compliance with an unwavering gaze.
The DSA is more than a mere compilation of edicts; it encapsulates a deeper, more profound ethos—a clarion call announcing that the wild frontiers of the digital domain shall be tamed, transforming into enclaves where the sanctity of individual dignity and rights is zealously championed. The three corporations, singled out as the pioneers to be ensnared by the DSA's intricate net, are now beckoned to embark on an odyssey of transformation, realigning their operations with the EU's noble envisioning of a safeguarded internet ecosystem.
The Paradigm Shift
In a resolute succession, following its first decree addressing 19 Very Large Online Platforms and Search Engines, the Commission has now ensconced the trinity of adult content purveyors within the DSA's embrace. The act demands that these platforms establish intuitive user mechanisms for reporting illicit content, prioritize communications from entities bestowed with the 'trusted flaggers' title, and elucidate to users the rationale behind actions taken to restrict or remove content. Paramount to the DSA's ethos, they are also tasked with constructing internal mechanisms to address complaints, forthwith apprising law enforcement of content hinting at criminal infractions, and revising their operational underpinnings to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and security of minors.
But the aspirations of the DSA stretch farther, encompassing a realm where platforms are agents against deception and manipulation of users, categorically eschewing targeted advertisement that exploits sensitive profiling data or is aimed at impressionable minors. The platforms must operate with an air of diligence and equitable objectivity, deftly applying their terms of use, and are compelled to reveal their content moderation practices through annual declarations of transparency.
The DSA bestows upon the designated VLOPs an even more intensive catalogue of obligations. Within a scant four months of their designation, Pornhub, XVideos, and Stripchat are mandated to implement measures that both empower and shield their users—especially the most vulnerable, minors—from harms that traverse their digital portals. Augmented content moderation measures are requisite, with critical risk analyses and mitigation strategies directed at halting the spread of unlawful content, such as child exploitation material or the non-consensual circulation of intimate imagery, as well as curbing the proliferation and repercussions of deepfake-generated pornography.
The New Rules
The DSA enshrines the preeminence of protecting minors, with a staunch requirement for VLOPs to contrive their services so as to anticipate and enfeeble any potential threats to the welfare of young internet navigators. They must enact operational measures to deter access to pornographic content by minors, including the utilization of robust age verification systems. The themes of transparency and accountability are amplified under the DSA's auspices, with VLOPs subject to external audits of their risk assessments and adherence to stipulations, the obligation to maintain accessible advertising repositories, and the provision of data access to rigorously vetted researchers.
Coordinated by the Commission in concert with the Member States' Digital Services Coordinators, vigilant supervision will be maintained to ensure the scrupulous compliance of Pornhub, Stripchat, and XVideos with the DSA's stringent directives. The Commission's services are poised to engage with the newly designated platforms diligently, affirming that initiatives aimed at shielding minors from pernicious content, as well as curbing the distribution of illegal content, are effectively addressed.
The EU's monumental crusade, distilled into the DSA, symbolises a pledge—a testament to its steadfast resolve to shepherd cyberspace, ensuring the Minotaur of regulation keeps the bedlam at a manageable compass and the sacrosanctity of the digital realm inviolate for all who meander through its infinite expanses. As we cast our gazes toward February 17, 2024—the cusp of the DSA's comprehensive application—it is palpable that this legislative milestone is not simply a set of guidelines; it stands as a bold, unflinching manifesto. It beckons the advent of a novel digital age, where every online platform, barring small and micro-enterprises, will be enshrined in the lofty ideals imparted by the DSA.
Conclusion
As we teeter on the edge of this nascent digital horizon, it becomes unequivocally clear: the European Union's Digital Services Act is more than a mundane policy—it is a pledge, a resolute statement of purpose, asserting that amid the vast, interwoven tapestry of the internet, each user's safety, dignity, and freedoms are enshrined and hold the intrinsic significance meriting the force of the EU's legislative guard. Although the labyrinth of the digital domain may be convoluted with complexity, guided by the DSA's insightful thread, the march toward a more secure, conscientious online sphere forges on—resolute, unerring, one deliberate stride at a time.
References
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_6763https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/three-of-the-biggest-porn-sites-must-verify-ages-under-eus-new-digital-law-1566874.html