The European Commission has launched a public call for evidence to inform a forthcoming European Open Digital Ecosystem Strategy. The initiative aims to strengthen Europe’s technological sovereignty by addressing structural challenges facing open-source software and digital commons across the EU.
In a statement issued on 12 January 2026, the Internet Freedom Foundation cautioned that draft proposals for new smartphone security requirements in India could have far-reaching implications for user privacy, device security, and individual control over personal technology. The proposals, known as the Indian Telecom Security Assurance Requirements, have been reported by Reuters but have not yet undergone public consultation.
In a press statement issued on 14 January 2026, Paradigm Initiative criticised the Ugandan authorities for imposing an internet shutdown and restricting media coverage in the days leading up to the general election. The organisation warns that these measures undermine digital rights, media freedom, and democratic participation at a critical moment.
France’s public health watchdog has concluded that social media has documented negative effects on adolescents’ mental health, particularly among girls. The findings add scientific weight to an ongoing policy debate in France over restricting access to social media for children under 15.
A new analysis by the Irish Council for Civil Liberties and Digital Rights Ireland explains, in practical terms, which public authorities in Ireland and the EU can intervene when illegal content appears online. The publication clarifies how police, regulators, and EU institutions each exercise distinct but overlapping powers, particularly in cases involving child sexual abuse material and non-consensual deepfake images.
New guidance from Australian and New Zealand cyber security authorities explains how small businesses can use artificial intelligence tools safely, highlighting key risks and practical steps to protect data, systems, and customers.
Spain’s government has approved draft legislation aimed at restricting the misuse of artificial intelligence to create deepfake images and voices. The proposal tightens consent requirements, particularly for children, and seeks to limit how images shared online can be reused without permission.
The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) has published a new draft of Web Authentication Level 3, a technical standard that underpins passwordless login methods such as security keys, fingerprint readers, and device-based authentication. The update aims to make logging in online more secure, private, and easier for users.
Malta plans new legislation to address abusive use of deepfake technology
The US National Institute of Standards and Technology has opened a public request for information on how to securely develop and deploy AI agent systems. The initiative reflects growing concern about the security and safety risks posed by increasingly autonomous AI tools.
Civil Society Alliances for Digital Empowerment (CADE) is a project co-funded by the European Union.
