China releases updated data export regime

China has announced new data export regulations that simplified the previous rules. The Cyberspace Administration of China unveiled the Provisions on Regulation and Promoting Cross-Border Data Flows, easing data export restrictions whilst ensuring data security and compliance meet international standards. One key aspect of the regulations is the requirement for companies to conduct security assessments …

US introduces new data privacy Bill

In a landmark move, Senate Commerce Committee Chairs Maria Cantwell and Cathy McMorris Rodgers have unveiled a draft of comprehensive data privacy legislation aimed at addressing key concerns surrounding data protection and consumer privacy rights. The American Privacy Rights Act marks a significant step towards establishing clear guidelines and standards for data handling practices across …

ACCC launches inquiry into internet search

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has announced a new inquiry into internet search services, aiming to investigate competition dynamics and potential consumer impacts in the digital sector. The inquiry underscores the importance of understanding and addressing issues related to search engine market dominance and its implications for businesses and consumers. The ACCC’s inquiry …

European Parliament votes in favour of Cybersecurity Resilience Act

The European Parliament approved the Cybersecurity Resilience Act in the European Union. This comprehensive legislation focuses on bolstering cybersecurity measures and fortifying digital infrastructures against cyber threats. The Act aims to address lacking standards in the EU, particularly regarding products that contain digital elements. Specific objectives include: Ensuring that manufacturers improve the security of products …

Australian Government seeks public submissions regarding doxxing

The Australian Government is currently undertaking significant reforms regarding doxxing and privacy, aiming to enhance online integrity and protect individuals’ privacy rights in the digital sphere. Doxxing refers to the malicious act of publicly sharing private or sensitive information about individuals without their consent. It can lead to various harm, including harassment, identity theft, reputational …

European Parliament passes Artificial Intelligence Act

The recent adoption of the AI Act by the European Parliament marks a significant milestone in the regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. This comprehensive legislative framework sets out rules and standards aimed at ensuring the responsible and ethical development and use of AI systems across various sectors in Europe. One of the key aspects …

Uber to pay $272 million to Australian taxi drivers

In a ground-breaking development for the ride-hailing industry, Uber has agreed to pay $272 million to Australian taxi operators as compensation for lost income in the Australian market. The settlement comes after five years of legal battles and challenges faced by Australian taxi drivers who argued that Uber’s entry into the market had caused financial …

European Commission found to have infringed data protection laws

The European Data Protection Supervisor revealed that the European Commission has infringed several data protection laws when using Microsoft 365. The Commission breached the European Union’s (EU) regulation 2018/1725, which handles the data practices of EU bodies, agencies, and offices. Under the regulation, the Commission: Failed to provide appropriate safeguards to ensure that personal data …

Introduction of Australia’s Digital ID Bill 2024

The Digital ID Bill 2024 was recently investigated by the Senate Economics and Legislation Committee. In its report, the Committee was overall pleased with the numerous benefits that a digital ID scheme will bring to individuals and businesses in Australia. The Bill will: legislate and strengthen a voluntary Accreditation Scheme for digital ID service providers …

US SEC uncovers AI washing in corporate case

The recent settlement between the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and two investment advisers, Delphia and Global Predictions, sheds light on the deceptive practice of artificial intelligence (AI) washing and its impact on corporate governance. AI washing refers to the deceptive use of AI for marketing or public relations purposes without meaningful substance. …