eSafety Commissioner drops case against X over stabbing video

The Australian eSafety Commissioner has withdrawn its investigation into Musk’s social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), concerning a video that depicted the stabbing of a bishop. This decision comes amid mounting scrutiny over the regulation of online content and the responsibilities of social media platforms in moderating harmful material. The controversial video, showing the stabbing …

Privacy legislation overhaul may come as early as August 2024

A recent speech by the Attorney-General of Australia at the Privacy by Design Awards 2024 serve as a prelude to the forthcoming legislative changes to the Privacy Act. The upcoming Privacy Legislation Reform focuses on several critical areas: Enhanced Data Protection: Strengthening the mechanisms for protecting personal data, particularly in light of increasing cyber threats …

Guy Betar Joins Arnotts Technology Lawyers

We are very pleased to announce that Guy Betar, a senior technology and commercial lawyer, has joined Arnotts Technology Lawyers as a partner. As a senior corporate/commercial lawyer, Guy brings to the firm extensive legal and corporate executive experience, together with specialist expertise in technology, data and Intellectual Property. Guy has in depth knowledge of corporate and commercial law and …

ASIC secures landmark victory against non-cash payment facility involving crypto

In a ground-breaking legal decision, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has secured its first court victory concerning a non-cash payment facility involving crypto assets. The Federal Court ruled against BPS Financial Pty Ltd (BPS), the company behind the crypto-asset token “Qoin”, marking a significant milestone in the regulation of digital financial products. The …

ACCC anti-scam report reveals surge in investment scams

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has released its third-quarter report, showcasing significant strides in combating scams across Australia. This period marks a pivotal moment with the establishment of the country’s first Fusion Cell, a collaborative initiative aimed at enhancing the detection, prevention, and disruption of investment scams. The report highlights a worrying rise …

United States launches International Cyberspace and Digital Policy Strategy

The United States (US) has launched the United States’ International Cyberspace and Digital Policy Strategy. This Strategy underscores the US commitment to a free, open, secure, and resilient cyberspace, essential for economic prosperity and national security. The Strategy is premised on digital solidarity, referring to cooperation between public and private sectors. It focuses on a …

Cyber sanction imposed on Russian citizen for ransomware activity

For the second time, Australia utilises its autonomous cyber sanctions framework under the Autonomous Sanctions Act 2011 (Cth) to impose a targeted financial sanction and travel ban on Dimitry Yuryevich Khoroshev. Dimitry is a Russian citizen who played a key role in the LockBit ransomware group. LockBit was responsible for 18% of reported ransomware incidents …

Parliament seeks feedback on digital transformation of the workplace

The Australian Parliament has launched an inquiry into the digital transformation of the workplace as technology is rapidly reshaping how we work, collaborate, and interact within organisational settings. The inquiry seeks to gather insights, feedback, and perspectives from a wide range of stakeholders, including businesses, employees, experts in employment law, and technology innovators. At the …

US and UK forge partnership for artificial intelligence testing

In a collaborative effort to advance the fields of science and artificial intelligence (AI) safety, the United States and the United Kingdom have announced a strategic partnership. This partnership signifies a commitment to addressing critical issues surrounding AI ethics, governance, and safety measures. The partnership in technology and innovation between these two global leaders aims …